Italian Chili

Italian Chili

Ingredients:

1 package Italian sausage links (about 19 ozs)

1 cup chopped leeks

3 celery ribs, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

1 each large sweet red, yellow, green pepper, cut into 1-inch strips

1 T minced garlic

3 T olive oil

3 cans (14 1/2 oz) Italian recipe stewed tomatoes

1 can (16 oz) dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (6 oz) butter beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

3/4 cup sliced black olives

1 T chopped fresh basil

1 1/2 tsp baking cocoa

1/2 tsp pepper

Directions:

Grill Italian sausage according to package directions; cut unto half moon slices and set aside. In soup kettle, saute leeks, celery, sweet peppers and garlic in olive oil until tender. Add sausage and remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 20 minutes or until flavors are blended.

Sprinkle chili with grated Asiago, Romano or Parmesan cheese.

Chili Cheese Dip

Chili Cheese Dip

Spread 1 8 oz. brick of softened cream cheese in the bottom of a pie plate, top with 1 can of Hormel Chili (either with or without beans, depending on preference). Heat in microwave 1-2 minutes. Top with shredded cheese and return to microwave until heated completely through. Serve with Tostitos, Fritos or Crackers. Never any leftovers.

Submitted by: Julie Hoshal