IN THE KITCHEN WITH: Tim's Classic Meatlover's Chili

Braden Woods resident Tim Hyden perfected this meat-lovers chili recipe while working as a firefighter for West Manatee Fire Rescue.

“There’s nothing super fancy about it,” he says. “It’s always been a favorite of mine.”

This recipe makes eight to 10 servings.

Tim’s Classic Meatlover’s Chili
Ingredients
2 pounds lean (80/20) ground beef
40 oz. can red kidney beans, drained
28 oz. can diced tomatoes
12 oz. can tomato paste
1 medium white onion, chopped
½ cup chili powder
1 Tablespoon oregano
1 Tablespoon onion garlic
1 teaspoon red pepper (do not add for mild chili)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt

Method:
1. Cook ground beef in frying pan, drain.
2. Add chopped onion. Cover and continue cooking ground beef until onions soften and beef begins to brown.
3. Remove from heat.
4. In large pot, add kidney beans, tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, three 12-ounce cans of water and seasonings. Remember to skip the red pepper for a milder taste. Stir until well blended.
4. Add ground beef and onions. Apply low heat and cover.
5. Simmer for a few hours, stirring regularly and adding water for desired consistency.
6. Serve with your favorite shredded cheese and season to taste.