Chili Con Carne, Mild and Mexican

In a heavy pot sauté meat, bay leaf and onions stirring and chopping constantly until brown - drain off fat. Add tomatoes, salt, chill powder, paprika, cayenne pepper and garlic powder and stir until boiling. Simmer one hour. Drain beans and measure the drained liquid and top up until you make 2 1/2 cups of liquid. Add beans and liquid to pot and gently stir until boiling. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve with grated cheese over mashed potatoes or with toast.