This is a recipe from my best friends Italian mother. I have made it with her before so I know what's in it and approximate quantities. It is different than my mothers chili but I have grown to love it. The whole garlic cloves may seem strange at first but it really makes it special and has become my favorite part of the meal. LEAVE THEM WHOLE! There is a variation to this recipe : use 2 cans of beans OR 1 can of beans and 2 crumbled soy burgers. (I prefer the soy burger version). I added the corn option because I LOVE this chili with corn, but it was not part of the recipe (recommended though!). Served over brown (or white) rice this is a simple, healthy dinner you can serve to anyone. Freezes great and keeps awhile that way.