Guess that secret ingredient... Chili

I know that based on my picture of this, it will be a challenge for you to guess what the secret ingredient is. Really, give it your best shot, though.

Oh, and yes, that is a kickball on my kitchen counter, next to my dinner. Don't say I never gave you a hint.

Kickball Crockpot Pumpkin Chili

1lb hamburger
1 onion chopped
3 cloves garlic or 2 T
1 bell pepper chopped

Brown the hamburger in a saucepan on the stove with onion, garlic, and bell pepper. When the hamburger is browned, drain and add to your 6 quart crockpot. On top of the hamburger, add all of the following ingredients, in no particular order.

2 T chili powder
black pepper
1 t McCormick szechuan style pepper mix (or hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes)
1 t cumin
1 t coriander
1 can diced tomatos
1 small can pumpkin (or about 1 1/2 cups)
1 14 oz can tomato sauce
1/2 cup water
2 T worcestershire sauce
2 cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 t cinnamon
1/4 t ginger
1/4 t nutmeg
1/4 t cloves
1/4 cup white sugar
1 small can V8 juice
2 cups broth (I made chicken broth with 1 McCormick chicken bouillion cube dissolved in water)

Cook in the crockpot on low for 8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until completely warmed through and combined.

My best advice...leave the house. Go to the office. Go shopping. Go rake leaves (for 8 hours). Go on a day trip to another state. If not, the wonderful smell might drive you crazy.

When it's ready, stir it and serve with sour cream, corn chips, or tasty gluten free corn muffins.

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For another warm and delicious dinner, try Zippy Shepherd's Pie.