Chocolate Chili
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until hot. Add 1 diced onion and 1 teaspoon chopped garlic. Cook and stir just until the onions are tender, about 3 minutes.
Add 2 pounds lean ground beef, 1 (4-oz) can of diced green chiles, and 1 packet of taco seasoning mix. Cook and stir about 5 minutes or until the meat is browned.
Stir in 1 (28-oz) can of diced tomatoes, 1 (16-oz) jar of thick and chunky salsa, 2 cups of water, 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of slivered almonds, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Bring to a boil, and reduce heat to low.
Simmer for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Add 1 (15-oz) can pinto beans (drained) and heat 15 minutes longer or until the beans are heated through.
Makes 8 servings. Garnish with crumbled taco shells, shredded cheddar cheese, cilantro and diced tomatoes. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and from start to finish, this takes 1 1/2 hours. And it is SO worth it.
