Homemade Chili

This recipe I put together last night when I wanted to eat something really hearty especially since it was really cold. You can add green peppers, and other hearty veggies and take out the meat to make this a vegetarian chili.

1 Tbls. extra virgin olive oil
1 lb. ground beef (you can substitute ground turkey)
1 Tbls. all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, crushed
1/2 tsp sugar
2 Tbls. dried onions
1 tsp seasoning salt
1/2 tsp instant minced garlic
1/2 tsp ground cumin
3/4 c. water
1 (16 ounce) can of chili beans
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce

1. In a large pot, brown ground beef, drain and add back into pot.
2. While ground beef is cooking, in a small bowl mix all dried ingredients.
3. Once the ground beef is added back into the pot, add the dried ingredients and 3/4 c. water. Stir and bring to a gentle boil for 2 minutes.
4. Add chili beans & tomato sauce
5. Stir and let simmer for 3-4 minutes
6. Serve with shredded cheddar cheese & crackers or cornbread