Sauté onions in oil (just enough to cook them in) over medium heat in a saucepan for 5 minutes or until golden. 1 onion, 3 Tbsp olive oil
Add garlic and continue cooking for 2 minutes. 2 cloves garlic, minced
Add tomato paste then stir and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the paste just starts to brown on the bottom of the pan. 1 can tomato paste
Add water then stir well to deglaze the pan. Add chili powder and remaining spices then whisk until smooth. 2 c water, 1 Tbsp each chili powder and cumin, 2 tsp each salt and pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
Add ground beef then stir the meat into the liquid with a whisk or fork. Once the meat and sauce are uniformly combined, bring to a low boil. 1 lb ground beef
Cover and simmer for 30 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Remove lid then continue simmering, uncovered, for 30 additional minutes or until chili has reached desired thickness.
Cover and keep warm until ready to serve.
