Instructions: 1. Melt the lard, butter, or bacon drippings in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they are translucent.

2. Combine the beef with the garlic, ground chile, cumin, and oregano. Add this meat-and-spice mixture to the pot with the onions. Break up any lumps with a fork and cook, stirring occasionally about 1/2 hour, until the meat is evenly browned.

3. Add the tomato sauce, water, salt, and optional parsley. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1 hour.

4. Stir in the corn flour(masa harina) to achieve the desired consistency.

5. Cook 10 minutes longer, stirring. Taste and adjust seasonings.

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