Is it chili outside? It is in here.

More friendly than a stray dog--and tastes better, too.

What is a cook out without chili? Texans will tell a body that chili isn't chili if it contains beans, so this is chili Texans would shake a two-step stick at.

Thick and substantial, this holds its own as a side (top center in the picture) or as a flavor-filled funapalooza atop a hot dog, a burger, or for any chili-respecting recipe.

The ingredients are common, though Ro-Tel puts some added excitement (one can choose the spicy Ro-Tel for a punch to the taste buds, or use mild or medium, as tastes will allow) into the meaty goodness.

So what do you say, folks? Yee-Haw? Darned Tootin!

Yer Darned Tootin’ Chili
 

1 lb ground beef
1 can rotel
½ cup minced purple onion
2 cloves garlic
1 Tbsp cocoa powder
1 Tbsp cumin
1 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp oregano
 

Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add rotel (and liquid). Chop can contents with  hamburger. Add the rest of the ingredients. Once the liquid begins to boil slightly, turn heat to simmer. Let cook for 20 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally.

 Makes 3 cups, or 6, 1/2 cup servings

Nutritional Information per serving: Calories 220, Carbohydrates: 4 g, Fiber: 1g, Net Carbohydrates: 3g, Protein: 13g, Fat: 17g