What hits the spot like a POT OF BODACIOUS CHILI on a chilly night?

 Pot of Bodacious Chili

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 smoked link sausage, cut into 1/4-inch pieces

1-1/2 pounds ground beef

2 cups yellow onions, minced

1 tablespoon garlic, minced  

1/4 cup chili powder

1 teaspoon each – paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, chipotle pepper

2 tablespoons onion powder

1 tablespoon salt

1 tablespoon chicken base

4 teaspoons ground cumin

1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes, crushed, and their juices

2 (14.5-ounce) cans chopped tomatoes

1 small can chopped chili peppers

2 cups chicken broth

1 teaspoon sugar

1 (27-ounce) can kidney beans with juice

1 baking potato, peeled and grated

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

In a large heavy pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and onions, cook till browned. Add the sausage, chicken base, garlic, chili powder, salt, spices, chili seasonings and cook, stirring often, 15 minutes. Add the potato and cook about five minutes, bring to low boil.

Add the tomatoes, chicken broth, sugar, peppers and chili beans to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, for two hours or longer, stirring occasionally to prevent the chili from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.  You may thin with water to your taste.

To serve, ladle into bowls and enjoy with crackers, hot tamales, grated cheese, or whatever you like.