Four Layer Cincinnati Chili

from Renae

I just got an email requesting this recipe from my husband. He's staying with Julie, Jodi, and Jessica's mom while I paint and pack. (Yes, we are moving back to Idaho, in case you haven't heard.) It must be his turn to cook.

This meal is one of our family favorites. Combining beans and pasta may seem strange, but it's tasty and inexpensive. A great way to feed a family or a homesick husband.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (optional)
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 can (28 oz) stewed tomatoes, undrained
• 1 C water
• 2 Tbls chili powder
• 1 tsp each: salt, cumin, and paprika
• 8 oz think spaghetti, cooked and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (or equivalent cooked dried beans)
• 1 C finely shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Brown ground beef (if using), 1 chopped onion garlic in a Dutch oven. Drain fat (if using beef). 2. Stir in tomatoes with juice, water, spices, and beans. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 45 min.
3. To serve, layer spaghetti, chili, chopped onion, and cheese on individual plates. Serves 6.

Taco Soup

from Renae

Using beans is an easy way to reduce the grocery bill. My family enjoys this simple recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cans (4 oz. each) chopped green chilies
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 pkg taco seasoning
• 1 1/2 c water
• 2 c frozen corn
• 3 cans stewed tomatoes
• 3 cans beans, any variety (or equivalent prepared dried beans)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Tortilla chips

Directions

1. In a large Dutch oven or kettle, cook onion. Add remaining ingredients except last two.
2. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 30 min.
3. Serve with cheese and chips. Serves 10.