Is it fall already??

(This is from an entry from the beginning of September.  I had started writing it but got sidetracked....)

Fall is our favorite season.  For my wife and I there is nothing like the cool weather, changing leaves aaaaannnnnnndddd chili.

I am aware that it is not officially fall yet, but the weather would have you think otherwise.  It's a pretty nice day when the temperatures barely crack 60, especially when the days before were over 90.

Since it is Kathy's birthday this week, she picked chili for one of her official birthday meals.
Off to Mariano's Grocery Store we went.  I don't know if Mariano's puts an addictive chemical in their ventilation, but it seems that everyone and their mother is ALWAYS there.  For those of you who don't know what Mariano's is or at least have never been there, it is the best grocery store per cost ratio.  There you will find all your staples as well as your exotics (for example, Ghost peppers) cheaper than almost anywhere else.  The only down side is because it is always so busy, parking and check out are a hassle.  All things considered, it is still worth it.

Sandberg's soon to be world famous chili.
1.5 to 2 lbs of lean ground beef
2 large white onions diced
3Tb extra virgin olive oil
1Tb each of cumin, chili powder, paprika
1tsp salt, pepper
1 dry bay leaf
1-4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (depending on your spice preference. 1 if you consider Lucky Charms just spicy enough)

I think that was about 4 peppers.  Muy Caliente!!

1Tb unsweetened cocoa powder
1Tb molasses
2 14 oz cans tomato sauce
2 14 oz cans diced tomato
2 cups of beef broth or red wine (You can add more or less depending on your texture preferences)
2 cans dark red kidney beans, drained.

Directions:
Heat the Oil in large stock pot
Add the Cumin, Paprika, Chili Powder, Salt, Pepper, Bay Leaf and saute for about 1 min.

Don't get the oil too hot or cook it too long.  Burnt oil is no good!!

Add the beef and brown
Add the Diced Onions and cook for about 3-5 minutes.
Add the Tomatoes, stir
Add the cocoa, molasses, chipotles, wine or broth
Bring to a boil and then simmer for one hour.

 It will smell so good you will be tempted to just stick your face in the simmering chili.  I would advise against this, but this is America after all so do whatever you want.  But I suggest finding something to do during this time.

After the chili has simmered for about an hour add the beans and heat throughout.
 Serve with all your favorite chili toppings...

And in case you were wondering what kind of beer that is..

Enjoy the greatest chili ever.  You're welcome world!!