Reduced Fat Beef Chili

Preheat the oven to 275ºF.

Add baking soda (helps the beef maintain moisture) and 1 1/4 teaspoon salt to the beef. Mix well and let sit for 20 minutes.

Heat a large heavy-bottom pot over medium-high heat and add the bacon grease. Add the onions and cook over medium high heat until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about one minute more. Add beef and cook, stirring to break it up until it browns, about 10 minutes.

When the beef begins to form a brown coating on the bottom of the pan, add the tomato sauce along with all spices (chili powder, paprikas, oregano, cumin, thyme, coconut aminos, fish sauce, stock, and soybeans. Stir well to incorporate caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle the gelatin over the dish. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil.

Cover and transfer the dish to the oven. Cook until the chili is thickened, about 1 1/2 hours. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking. Alternatively, you can simmer this uncovered on the lowest possible setting on the stovetop rather than bake. When done cooking, add the apple cider vinegar and let stand 10 minutes. Stir well before serving and add desired toppings such as low-fat Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, and reduced-fat Mexican cheese.