Brown 1 lb. ground beef and 1 lb. ground pork in heavy pan with 2 t. finely minced garlic; drain well.
Add one medium onion (diced), 2 T. chili powder, 1 t. thyme, 1 t. ground black pepper, 1 T. salt, 1/4 - 1/2 t. cayenne pepper. Continue to saute for several minutes.
Combine 1/2 c. flour with 2 c. cold water; stir to blend; add to pan. Stir to mix well.
Add 2 cans (15 oz. each) pinto beans (undrained) and 1 can (14 - 15 oz.) crushed tomatoes.
Pour in 12 oz. ale.
Bring to simmer - do not cover - allow to simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
Serve in bowl, bread bowl or sourdough bread bowl.
Top with shredded cheese blend of Cheddar and MOnterey Jack cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chipped green onions.