"Brilliant" Beanless Red Chili

This is a fantastic, thick and hearty chili recipe. The brilliance is in the ostensible absence of beans.


Ingredients
(2) 16 oz. Cans Refried Beans
(2) Large Onions, diced
(4) Cups Celery, diced
(2) 32 oz. Cans Tomato Sauce with bits ¹
2 to 2.5 lbs. Ground Beef ²
(1) 2 Alarm Chili Kit or Packet of Williams Chili Seasoning ³
Chopped Cilantro (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Using a large saute pan, saute celery and onions over medium heat until tender.
Add in ground beef and brown.
Transfer celery, onions, and ground beef to a large sauce pot.
Add in tomato sauce, refried beans, and chili seasoning and bring to a boil over medium high heat.
Reduce heat and simmer for at least an hour; two if time permits.
Add a small can of water / extra tomato sauce or additional refried beans if necessary to achieve desired consistency.
Serve with shredded cheese, Fritos, and oyster crackers.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired.

Notes:

¹ If you cannot find tomato sauce with bits, add in a 16 oz can of crushed tomatoes.
² For Texas style chili, substitute cubed sirloin for ground beef.
³ If you are using the 2 Alarm Chili Kit, combine all ingredients except Masa when the recipe indicates to add the chili seasoning. Mix the masa with cold water as per instructions on kit and add mixture in while simmering ... about 20 minutes before serving. Add the chili powder to taste; the red pepper is optional.