New Year's Day Chili

[samtyr.livejournal.com]

3 cans (15 oz.) red kidney beans
1 can (15 oz.) chili beans
1 can (15 oz.) black beans
1 can (10-11 oz.) tomato soup
1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce
1 1/2 cup water
1 or 2 bay leafs

Meat:
3/4 lb. Italian sausage
1/2 lb. hamburger

Drain all beans in sieve. Be sure to rinse them until the water runs clear. Put beans in large pot with water and bay leafs; cook on medium heat. Stir frequently and do not scorch.

Fry hamburger and sausage thoroughly. Drain well on paper towels

Add meat to beans and simmer for at least 20 minutes or longer.

Note: I did not add onions, garlic or peppers to this because I was out of them. Also, I had never used Italian sausage in chili before and I wasn't sure what the flavor would be like. (I also used a lot more meat than usual too!) In the past I have used a variety of seasonings but I always keep in mind my grandma's #1 rule: Taste first. You can always "add to" but you can't "take away from" in cooking -- especially soups and stews. A little bit can go a very long way.

Personally, I think this was one of the best recipes I have come up with yet. :)