What's in the fridge: Chili

This week's "What's in the fridge" meal is chili. Makes about 8 very generous meals for one. Estimated cost to buy all ingredients (March 2011): $7

1 lb ground beef
1 1/2 c each of dried black beans, black eyed beans, adzuki beans, chickpeas (or about 6 cups of your favourite dried beans mix)
1/2 red pepper chopped finely
2 medium onions chopped
2 carrots chopped finely
1 large can diced tomatoes
1 can tomato paste
2-3 tbsp beef bullion
1-2 tbsp garlic powder
2-4 tbsp italian seasoning
2-4 tbsp chili powder
1-2 tbsp paprika
1/2-1 tbsp red pepper flakes
salt & pepper to taste

1. Place beans into containers/ziplock bags and cover with water. Place in fridge for 8hrs-7 days.
2. Drain beans and place in a large pot. Cover with 1-2 inches of water and add beef bullion and garlic powder. Simmer for 1-2 hours until the beans are mostly tender. Drain.
3. Brown beef in a large pan, drain fat and add to beans.
4. Fry onions, carrots, and red pepper until soft and beginning to brown. Add to pot.
5. Add remaining ingredients to pot. Fill the empty can from the diced tomatoes with water and add to the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then turn down and simmer on low for 2-3 hours or until you are ready to eat.

 Add more paprika and less chili powder for a milder chili.