I always put tomatoes in my chili 'cause that's how I like it.
I also like a blend of different dried/ground chiles like pasilla, ancho, chipotle powder, cayenne, etc. Not just the 'chili powder' in the little jar. I've read that cascabel is good...anyone try that? Don't think I have seeds for it but would love to grow it. My daughter is growing garlic this year and that is a must too. I love to cook it a long time.
On another note, we are getting a lamb order this week - 66 pounds. Does lamb lend itself to a chili?