Chili Con Carne - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 lb lean beef, cut into small cubes (such as sirloin)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 1/2 cups water
2 -3 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon cumin
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon ground pepper
1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans
salt

Preparation

Brown beef in oil in a large dutch oven or deep skillet.
Add onion and green pepper. Cook until onion is soft & translucent. Add garlic & stir.
Add remaining ingredients except beans & salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat & simmer, uncovered, for 45 minutes. Remove bay leaf.
Drain beans & add to pot. Add salt to taste. Simmer for another 15 minutes.
Serve in bowls with grated cheddar cheese on top (optional).
Can substitute kidney or other beans & also use ground beef instead of sirloin if desired.
Enjoy!