Dark and Mellow Chili for a Cloudy, Rainy Day

It is dark and overcast today with off and on showers. Seems like a good day to have a deep, hearty chili, curl up and watch ‘Rebecca’ (“Last night I dreamed of Manderley again”). My best wishes to you all.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

12 ounces beefless ground beef (or browned ground beef)

1 (10.50 ounce) can French onion soup

1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce

1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 (15 or 15.5 ounce) chili beans, undrained

1 (15 or 15.5 ounce) red kidney beans, undrained

2 teaspoons cumin

1 teaspoon (or more to taste) ground chipotle powder

1 teaspoon sweet paprika

Pinch of allspice

1 teaspoon espresso powder

1 Tablespoon brown sugar

2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder

Salt to taste

Directions: Dump everything into a large pot. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil; reduce to a simmer. Cover and simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. Serve in bowls with optional toppings of fresh chopped onion, shredded cheddar, sour cream, tortilla chips, etc.