Keri's Famous Vat of Meaty Chili

2 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
1 green pepper
1 red pepper
1 yellow pepper
1-2 onions
2 tbsp oil
2-4 clove garlic, crushed
2 28oz cans crushed tomatoes
1/2 c water, more or less depending on thickness
1/4 c chili powder
2 tsp cumin
1/8 tsp cinnamon or cocoa powder
1 tbsp chopped basil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce
1-2 bay leaves
1 tsp brown sugar
shredded cheddar cheese
sour cream
tortilla chips
brown rice
corn bread

Finely chop all vegetables. Heat oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent. Add beef to onions. Brown the meat.  Add chopped peppers. Cook until soft. Add crushed garlic and cook for an additional two minutes.  Transfer into a large pot and heat on medium-high. Add tomatoes, water, and all seasonings.  Bring to a boil, let boil for 5 minutes, then reduce heat to low. Let chili simmer for at least 2 hours.  Serve with brown rice, cheddar cheese, sour cream, chips, and/or corn bread.