Quick Beef-&-Bacon Chili & Beans - cooking recipe

Ingredients

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 medium garlic cloves, finely chopped
3 medium onions, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1/4-inch dice
1/2 lb streaky bacon, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch wide strips
3/4 lb lean ground beef
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 (8 3/4 ounce) cans kidney beans, drained
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon dried oregano leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/4 lb sharp cheddar cheese, coarsely shrededed (1 cup)
1 medium red onion, finely chopped (for garnish)
1/2 cup sour cream, for garnish

Preparation

In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic, onions, bell pepper and bacon, and saute until onions are translucent and bacon begins to color slightly, 2 to 3 minutes.
Add beef and saute, stirring to break up meat into fine particles, until evenly browned, 7 to 10 minutes.
Add chili powder, cayenne and cumin and saute 1 minute more.
Add remaining ingredients, except garnishes, bring to a boil and continue simmering until thick, about 20 minutes.
Serve in individual bowls garnished with cheese, onion, and sour cream.