*Ingredients*

1 lb. ground meat (or 1.5 pounds)

1 large onion, chopped

1 bell pepper, chopped

1 cup celery, chopped

1 (8oz) can tomato sauce

1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

1 large can kidney or chili beans

1 tsp sugar

1 TBSP chili powder

1 tsp. black pepper

salt to taste

2 cups water or more

shredded cheddar cheese

*Directions*

1. Saute in a large skillet the beef, onion, bell pepper, and celery and drain well.

2. Now put this mixture in a 6 qt. pan along with tomato sauce, tomato paste, beans, sugar, chili powder, pepper, salt, and water.

3. Simmer gently at least 1 hour but more if you have time

4. 2 hours is best, the longer it cooks, the better.

5. Serve it topped with shredded cheese and/or sour cream