Johnny Jalapeno's Thieving Bandit Chili

Many years ago, Johnny had stolen this recipe from 2Bleu. Well, the law finally caught him but to save Johnny from a hangin for stealin, 2Bleu told the judge that while it was indeed their recipe, they had given it to Johnny as a gift and planned on putting his name on the cans. 2Bleu just didn't have the heart to see Johnny hangin from a noose (especially since he was secretly their cousin, twice removed). ;) Adjust the jalapeno, cayenne, and chili powder to your desired heat level. For an all-out exlusive dish, try spooning this chili over Johnny Jalapeno's 'jumpin Wagon Wheels!' Macaroni and Cheese!

• Ready In: 2 hrs 45 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 6  ounces bacon, cut up in small pieces (use scissors works great)
• 2  lbs ground beef
• 1  onion, chopped
• 4  garlic cloves, chopped
• 2 (14 ounce) cans  bush's chili beans, undrained (or kidney beans)
• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (or Rotel)
• 0.5 (7 1/2ounce) can chipotle chiles in adobo, chopped fine (FOR SUPER FIERY CHILI)
• 1  tablespoon  chopped  jalapeno pepper (FOR A MILDER CHILI)
• 6  ounces tomato paste
• 3  cups beef broth
• 1  tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1  tablespoon chili powder
• 1  tablespoon paprika (smoked is best)
• 1  tablespoon ground cumin
• 1  tablespoon dried oregano
• 1  tablespoon molasses
• 1  teaspoon  hot sauce (your favorite)

• Toppings

•  sour cream
•  shredded cheese
•  tortilla chips
•  cornbread

Directions

1. Over medium heat, brown bacon in a large dutch oven until crisp. Add beef, onions, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is cooked through.
2. Add remaining ingredients and stir. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 2-3 hrs, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your liking.
3. Alternatively, you can let simmer for 1 hr, then let cool, refrigerate overnight and finish cooking the next day.