People will probably be surprised to hear that the "secret" to this chili's gre at taste is cocoa. It adds a subtle rich flavor to slightly spicy chili.
In an 8-qt. saucepan or kettle, combine water, undrained tomatoes and tomato j uice; begin cooking over medium heat. Meanwhile, in a skillet, melt shortening : add beef and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned; immediately add beef and onion to tomato mixture. Add garlic, bay leaves, chili powder, co coa, oregano, cumin, sugar, salt and cayenne. Heat to boiling. Reduce heat; s immer 2-1/2 to 3 hours. Add additional water if chili gets too thick during co oking. About 30 minutes before chili is done, add cilantro. Mix flour with 1/ 3 cup water; add to chili. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until chili busted by Sara Horton, 5/30/98
By Horton Family <dhorton@jazz.cybermedia.net> on May 30, 1998.