[trebb]

I make a mean chili. And I put beans in it. I don’t care what the Texans may say.

Yep - and I think the cumin has to be just right for base flavor - once it's right, it can be spiced to taste.

[colorado tanker]

I sure agree with that! Lots of folks focus exclusively on the chilies and powder, but getting the cumin right is the key.