Illini Union Chili

Yes, from the Illini Union cafeteria at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Got my bachelor's there, worked there for 12 years, got my master's there and this mild, yummy soothing chili was a mainstay. Still is, only now I make it myself. I generally make at least a double and often a triple batch because it freezes beautifully. I also use about half light red and half dark red kidney beans, just because. For authenticity, serve with fritos. Also excellent with hot corn bread. A really good variation is to add some small-diced raw green pepper and halved or quartered fresh grape tomatoes for a bit of a crunch and nice freshness, when serving.

• Ready In: 3 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄4 lbs  ground chuck
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped onion
• 2 -3  garlic cloves, minced
• 1  cup tomato puree (or sauce)
• 1  tablespoon chili powder (mild)
• 2 -3  teaspoons salt
• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 3 1⁄2 cups kidney beans, undrained
• 1 1⁄2 cups water

Directions

1. Lightly brown ground chuck in large skillet.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
3. Add tomato puree, chili powder, salt, ground cumin and water.
4. Add kidney beans and mix.
5. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 hours.