There are few moments more satisfying for a home cook than hearing your name announced as the winner of a chili competition. When I signed up last year for the chili cook-off at work, I hoped my recipe would hold its own among a lineup of slow-simmered family recipes and secret ingredients. To my surprise and delight, it took first place. A moment I truly will never forget or stop talking about.

This chili is inspired from John Legend's chili recipe (hence the name LEGENDary chili), but like many great recipes, it evolved once it reached my kitchen. The original version calls for brown sugar, but I decided to leave it out. I tend to prefer a richer, more savory chili, and I found that the sweetness wasn't necessary. If you enjoy chili with a touch of sweetness and balance, feel free to stir in 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar.

I also made a few additions to give the chili more texture and depth. Chopped mushrooms add an earthy richness that blends beautifully with the beef, and diced tomatoes create the chunkier consistency I love in a hearty bowl of chili. It's the kind of meal that's even better the next day, and pairs perfectly with Sunday football on a crisp Autumn day.

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef

1 medium yellow onion, chopped

1 cup mushrooms, chopped

1½ tablespoons Lawry's Seasoned Salt

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cans kidney beans, drained

1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

2 cups water

Directions:

• Heat a large pot over medium heat.

• Add the ground beef, onion, mushrooms, seasoned salt, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.

• Cook, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon, until the beef is browned and the mushrooms have released their liquid, about 8 minutes.

• Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

• Add the water, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.

• Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 40 minutes, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together

• Serve hot and enjoy.