Mama's Chili Recipe

Place the tomatoes in a large pot and squash them with your hands. Add the beans onion banana chile pepper sugar garlic powder and chili powder and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile in a separate large skillet over medium high heat saute the ground beef for 5 to 10 minutes or until browned and crumbly. Drain the fat and add the beef to the simmering pot. Stir in the cheese if desired. Allow to simmer for 1 more hour.