Maria Ricketson found her best overall chili winning recipe in Woman’s Day magazine some year ago. A long-time family favorite, she was urged on by her children and grandchildren to enter it into the competition.

“Grandchildren love it,” she said. “It doesn’t burn their mouth.”

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef1-2 large onions, coarsely chopped2 cloves of garlic2 teaspoons chili pepper2 teaspoons salt1 teaspoon pepper1 teaspoon oregano1 teaspoon cumin28-ounce can diced tomatoes28-ounce can tomato sauce28 ounces of water2 cans of kidney beans, rinsed1/3-cup brown sugar

Directions

Brown beef and drain grease. Sauté onions with the garlic. Combine beef, onions, garlic and remaining ingredients in a large pot and cook for as long as you want.

Cook in a crock pot for several hours but it can be ready to eat in 30 to 45 minutes. It goes well served over cooked elbow macaroni.