Famous Recipe (copycat): Almost Wendy's Chili

I love Wendy's Chili, and although this isn't the actual secret recipe, it's close! Enjoy!

2 lbs ground beef

1 (12 ounce) can tomato paste

2 (29 ounce) cans tomato sauce

1 (29 ounce) can kidney beans, with liquid

1 (29 ounce) can pinto beans, with liquid

1 cup diced onions

1/2 cup diced green chilies

1/4 cup diced celery

3 medium tomatoes, chopped

2 teaspoons cumin powder

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper

2 teaspoons salt

2 cups water

Directions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain off the fat.

2. Using a fork, crumble the cooked beef into pea-size pieces.

3. In a large pot, combine the beef plus all the remaining ingredients, and bring to a simmer over low heat.

4. Cook, stirring every 15 minutes, for 2 to 3 hours.

Makes: 4 to 6 servings