Perfect Hot Dog Chili

The Chili

In a saucepan, combine...

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups water

Break the beef apart with your hands or a potato masher until no chunks remain, adding a splash more water if needed. Stir in...

• 8 oz tomato paste
• 1 tbsp kosher salt{tip:We test with Morton kosher salt. Using table salt? Use about 3/4 as much. Diamond Crystal? Use about 1 1/2 times as much.}
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Bring to a boil, then simmer until thick and saucy, about 30 minutes.

Serve

Spoon over hot dogs or chili cheese fries, or eat it as a bowl of chili with a few crackers.