Texas Red Chili with Fry Bread

1. In a 5- to 6-quart Dutch oven brown the meat, half at a time, in hot oil over medium-high heat, cooking the onion and garlic with the second half of meat. Drain off fat. Return all meat to the pan. Stir in the undrained tomatoes, beef broth, and enchilada sauce. Stir in beans. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Uncover and simmer about 30 minutes more or until beef is tender, stirring occasionally.

2. In a small bowl stir together the cold water and cornmeal or masa harina. Stir into stew. Cook, uncovered, 10 minutes more or until thickened, stirring frequently. Stir in cilantro just before serving.

3. To serve, place Fry Bread in shallow bowls and ladle chili over Fry Bread. Top with shredded cheese. Makes 6 servings.

Fry Bread
In a large bowl stir together 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup corn meal, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon baking powder. With a pastry blender cut in 1/4 cup shortening until mixture is the consistency of small peas. Add 3/4 cup water and 1/3 cup snipped fresh cilantro all at once and stir just until dough forms a ball (dough will be slightly sticky). Divide dough into 6 portions. On a floured surface, roll each portion to a 7-inch circle. In a heavy 10-inch skillet heat 1 tablespoon shortening over medium heat. Fry one dough circle at a time for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until golden brown, turning once; add additional shortening as needed. If fry breads begin to brown too quickly, reduce heat to medium-low.

Slow Cooker Variation
Brown meat, onion, and garlic as directed above; drain off fat. Transfer meat mixture to a 4-1/2- to 6-quart slow cooker. Stir in undrained tomatoes, enchilada sauce, and beef broth. Stir in beans. Cover and cook on high-heat setting for 6 to 7 hours. If using low-heat setting, turn to high-heat setting. In a small bowl stir together 1/2 cup cold water and 1/3 cup cornmeal or masa harina. Stir into stew in cooker. Cover and cook 15 minutes longer. Stir in cilantro just before serving. Serve with Fry Bread and cheese as directed above.