Instructions: Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, 3 minutes. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt and peppers; cook 1 minute. Increase heat to medium-high. Add beef; cook, stirring, until meat is no longer pink, 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes; simmer 20 minutes. (Can be made ahead. Cool. Transfer to 2 1/2-quart microwaveproof bowl. Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours.

Microwave covered on High 12 minutes, stirring every 3 minutes, or until hot.) Stir in cilantro.

Makes 8 cups.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes Degree of difficulty: Easy Microwave

NOTES : : Wednesday, December 31, 1997 6:12 AM Heres a simple chili recipe that you can serve up in less than 45 minutes. Its delicious as is-but feel free to add or decrease the amount of spice according to your preference.

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