Chili

2 lbs ground beef, browned and drained
1 Tbs fat (oil or bacon grease)

1 onion, small dice
green bell pepper, small dice
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp oregano
2 tsp salt
2 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cayenne
1 tsp Tabasco
2 c water, chicken stock, or beef stock
1 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes
1 14.5 oz can dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional)

Saute onion and bell pepper in fat until tender. Add remaining ingredients and simmer until flavors meld (at least 30 minutes). Chili is even better the next day.