Recipe(tried): Wendy's Chili (copycat)

Gina, I've tried a dozen different recipes and get more raves from this "Wendys" clone then any other. (I some times substitute different beans, like 4 different 15 oz cans instead of the 29 oz ones.
Best of Luck,
john in california

Wendy's Chili (copycat)

2 lb. ground beef
One (29-oz) can tomato sauce
One (29-oz) can kidney beans (with liquid)
One (29-oz) can pinto beans (with liquid)
1 cup diced onion (1 medium onion)
1/2 cup diced green chili (2 chilies)
1/4 cup diced celery (1 stalk)
3 med tomatoes, chopped
2 teas cumin powder
3 Tbls chili powder
1 1/2 teas black pepper
2 teas salt
2 cups water

Brown ground beef in a skillet over med heat & drain off the fat.

Using a fork, crumble cooked beef to pea-size pieces.

In a large pot, combine beef & all remaining ingredients.

Bring to a simmer over low heat. Cook, stirring every 15 mins, for 2 to 3 hours.

top with chopped onion & cheddar cheese

Tidbits

Spicier chili, add 1/2 teas more black pepper.
Much spicier chili, add 1 teas black pepper & 1 Tbls cayenne pepper.
Stomach stinger, add 5 or 6 sliced jalapeno peppers to the pot.
Leftovers can be frozen for several mos.