After that fight in Mike’s kitchen, we did the only mature thing: we made two pots. One pure Texas red, one loaded with kidney beans and extra cumin. We sat down, tasted both, and—wouldn’t you know it—they were both fantastic.
Food isn’t about winning arguments. It’s about sharing warmth, spice, and a little bit of history. So put beans in, or don’t. Just make sure your chili is good. And if anyone gives you grief, tell them Mike from Texas said it’s okay.
Just don’t tell him I told you that.
