Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large green bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2 inch pieces
• 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes, with liquid
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 4 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, unsweetened
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• salt and pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown ground beef over medium heat for 8 minutes or until well done. Stir frequently to crumble meat. Drain in colander and rinse with cool water to further reduce fat if desired. Remove cooked meat to a large bowl.

2. To sauté pan, add onion, green pepper and garlic and sauté until tender. Add tomatoes with juice and cook for 3 minutes more.

3. Add oregano, cumin, chili powder, cocoa powder, sugar and hot sauce. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes.

4. Add beans and meat and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes. Add salt and pepper before serving if desired.