Chili Competitions

 

Mary’s Monday Musings

Chili Competitions

              I’ve never understood why sometimes it is the hottest chili that wins the competition. To me, I’d rather eat something full of subtle flavors instead of something that makes my eyes water and has me reaching for a glass of water with my mouth on fire. But then, I’m not very adventuresome about rides in an amusement park either. Maybe I was standing in the wrong line when the spirit of adventure was passed out. I don’t require slinging my body around to have fun. It’s quite pleasant enough to hold purses and packages for others who want to ride the rides. I think God makes all kinds of people to fulfill all the various roles He desires performed here on earth.  As we accept ourselves with our own particular nature, it behooves us to be patient with those who approach life in a different way.  At the same time, we don’t have to settle for what we are. We can make an effort to expand ourselves, our likes, our comfort zone.  God can mold us into what He needs us to be to fulfill His plans for us if we are open to allow Him to change us. Wisdom prays for God to mold us into the reactions, the thinking patterns, and approach to life He desires for us at any given time.

I’m adding a favorite chili recipe that warms a body on a cold winter day which even a child can enjoy.  This recipe was taken from the Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook I was given when I was married. I’m writing the changes I’ve made to the recipe so I’m not plagiarizing.  Even as we change and alter recipes, let’s allow God to change our actions and alter our reactions to make us able to be His ambassadors in every kind of environment and situation.

Chili

1 Number 2 can of kidney beans (about 2 ½ cup)

1 large onion, diced.

1 green pepper, chopped.

1 pound ground beef

1 number 2 ½ can of tomatoes (3 ½ cups).

1 t. salt. (I use half of this.)

Dash paprika, Dash cayenne pepper.

3 whole cloves

1 Bay leaf

1 ½ – 2 teaspoons chili powder. The recipe calls for as much as 2 tablespoons of chili powder!

Brown onion and green pepper and meat together. Add tomatoes and seasonings.  Simmer 2 hours adding water if necessary. Add undrained beans: heat well. Makes 6 servings.