Midwestern Style Chili

Chili recipes vary by region.  Depending upon the region, the soup may or may not contain beans.  One city from my home state (Cincinnati) is known for its unique flavor and ingredients.  Cincinnati chili contains cinnamon and chocolate or cocoa and is usually served over spaghetti.

This chili recipe is based on my mother's and is a fairly typical midwestern style chili.

Ingredients
1.25 lbs hamburger
1/2 onion, finely diced
2 stalks celery, diced
28 oz. can diced tomatoes
8 oz. can tomato sauce
15.5 oz. can dark red kidney beans, undrained
2 T sugar
2 cups water
2-3 T chili powder (according to personal "heat" requirements)
1/4 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Weber's Chicago Steak seasoning

Directions:

1. Brown ground beef and onions together.  Drain.
2. In dutch oven, combine ground beef and rest of ingredients (except for kidney beans).
3. Simmer on medium low for 20-25 minutes or until celery is soft.
4. Add kidney beans and liquid to pot.  Simmer on low for another 5-10 minutes.
5. Top each serving with cheddar cheese if desired.