Step 1

In a large heavy pot, brown the ground beef with the garlic until it’s totally cooked. Drain off most of the excess fat, leaving a little behind for moisture and flavor.

Step 2

Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt and cayenne. Stir together well, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If the liquid level seems low, add up to 1½ cups water to keep the chili from burning.

Step 3

Stir the beans into the chili. In a small bowl, combine the masa harina with 1/2 cup water and stir with a fork until smooth, then stir into the chili. Let simmer for another 10 minutes to thicken. Taste and adjust the seasonings. Top with cheese, bacon and jalapeños.