Crockpot Chili (Cook-off Winner!)

INGREDIENTS

slices hardwood smoked bacon

red bell pepper, (finely chopped)

green bell pepper, (finely chopped)

1/2 cup

(~2 stalks) celery, (finely chopped)

1 cup

(~1 small) yellow onion (finely chopped)

small jalapeno peppers, (optional* seeds removed and finely diced)

2 cans

EACH) chili (pinto) beans in medium sauce

1 can

chili (pinto or kidney) beans in mild sauce

2 cans

EACH) petite diced tomatoes, (undrained)

1 can

tomato paste

2 lb

ground beef chuck

1 lb

Italian sausage

4 tbsp

chili powder

1 tbsp

dried oregano

2 tsp

cumin

1 tsp

dried basil

1 tsp

seasoned salt (& 3/4 teaspoon pepper)

1 tsp

cayenne pepper

1 tsp

paprika

1 tbsp

white sugar

1 tbsp

Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp

minced garlic

regular sized beef bouillon cubes

Optional: fresh cilantro, sour cream, freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese