In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft, about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a healthier dish.
Return the cooked mixture to the pot. Add the tomato juice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and all the seasonings.
Stir everything well and bring it to a boil. This is a crucial step to blend the flavors.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Feel free to add more cayenne pepper for a spicier kick or additional salt if necessary.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some hot sauce. This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.