Sweet Hot Chili

Before you read any further, you should know this: If you like your Chili "knock-your-socks-off-hot" then this recipe is not for you. I like a little heat to my chili, but a little sweet to it too. My kids all love this recipe. My husband does too, but he adds a little more heat to his bowl than I like. This recipe is a winter staple in our house. It's hearty, it's healthy, and it's piping hot on those cold winter nights.

Sweet Hot Chili

1 lb ground beef
1 ring of kielbasa sausage
1 chopped onion
1 chopped green pepper
1 chopped red pepper
1 bunch of celery, chopped
1 cup shredded carrots
1 can of dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 tsp chili powder
2 cloves crushed garlic
1 28oz can of tomato sauce
2 28oz cans of petite diced tomatoes
1 packet of mild chili seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
3 Tbsp sugar

1. In a large soup pan, saute ground beef until it's cooked through.

2. Meanwhile, dice up the kielbasa sausage.

3. When beef is browned, add to the pot, the sausage and cook until sausage is slightly browned.

4. Add in the rest of the ingredients. Bring to a boil.

5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about an hour or until veggies are tender.

6. Add more salt, pepper, or sugar to taste.

NOTE: My husband likes to douse his with some Frank's Red Hot.