That new rasp sounds like a game changer. I get what @fiona985 is saying about old tools getting dull, they just make the job harder for everyone. A good tool makes all the difference when you're up against something tough.

That plastic cup trick is a lifesaver, shows how easy it is to get fooled. riley43 is right about stirring a ton, but you gotta be careful with constant stirring once it's hot and thick like chili. You can actually break down the beans and meat too much if you're too rough with it. My method is to do a real deep mix right before it starts to simmer, then just let it cook. One last power-stir with a big paddle from the absolute bottom right before you kill the heat always finds any sneaky salt pockets.

Sounds like @matthewmartin is still stuck in the old system.

Serious question" is doing a lot of work here. It's just candles.

Yeah, that's a scary shortcut.