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Almost time again...

dnw wrote:Made some yesterday with a simplier recipe. Not as good as yours, BR.

ground beef
chili beans
onions
green pepper
diced tomatoes
mushrooms
chili seasoning mix
salt
pepper
garlic cloves

Looks like what I make for Mr. Lime.

But no green pepper....fresh minced jalapeno with the seeds and spines removed.
Also, try it with minced roasted garlic instead of raw garlic.

Sublime.

Why do you guys use packet chilli mixes?

They are just a bunch of spices and some other chemicals you really don't need in your system.

Why not work out a custom spice blend?

Plenty of room for experiment, cheap and a great excuse for a get together...

My mixes start with the basics:
Cinnamon
Coriander Seed (I think you guys call it cilantro)
Cumin Seed (or ground cumin if you don't have seeds)
Fresh ground Chipotle
All Spice (Pimento)
Dried Oregano*
Dried Thai Birds Nest Chillies* - These are for heat, the chipotle for flavour - Jalapenos are also a good stand by. The long Mexican red chillies (Serrano?) can a substitute for the Thai Birds Nest's.

Dry fry (roast) them in a small pan until the aroma is released. Then grind then together in a mortar & pestle. Try and do this while they are still warm, it is an aromatic sensation.

You are then ready to experiment....

For a fruity twist throw in a banana and a couple of diced apples.

*Actually I use fresh oregano and birds nest chillies - Don't add them to the dry roast - put the chillies and half of the oregano into the simmer early. Put the rest of the oregano in about 5 or 10 minutes before the end of cooking.

You'll get my McCormick's packet chili mix when you pry it our of my cold dead hands.

And also, I don't have the time or inclination to do home made.