It took many years and hundreds of pots of chili, but I finally found THE ONE. Seriously - this is the absolute best chili recipe out there, thanks to the secret ingredients + perfect spice profile.
Heat up your pot to medium-low and add butter. When it’s melted, add diced onions and peppers. Cook until soft and translucent, stirring every few minutes so they don't burn. Add garlic and stir.
Add ground beef and cook it until it’s browned and cozy with the onions, peppers, and garlic.
Add all other ingredients and simmer on low until dinner. (At least 30 minutes for best flavor.) Be sure to stir every 10 minutes or so so that it doesn't burn on the bottom - especially if your stove's "low" equals a bubbling simmer.
Notes
For best results, a nice long simmer is best to help bring out the flavor. I always aim for at least an hour, but you can serve it earlier if absolutely necessary. (The leftovers will taste even better!)