Family Halloween Party & Chili Fest

We have a family tradition that occurs each October – The Family Chili Fest. I have it close to Halloween so my grandchildren can wear their costumes. It’s usually the first time they get a chance to wear them so they are very excited. The adults even get into the act by dressing up. We begin with dinner which is, you guessed it, chili. I make many different kinds because some family members like traditional chili, some prefer vegetarian and others favor something in between. After dinner we clear the table and decorate cookies and pumpkins and then end with a spooky story. This year I have 2 new grandchildren so it will be fun to see how they come dressed.
I’m including a great chili recipe that I got from a friend many years ago. I can alter it to make everyone happy.
Surprise Chili
1 lb. sweet Italian sausage
1 lb. lean ground beef
1 lb. cooked bacon
1 chopped onion
1 chopped green pepper
Cook together in heavy kettle until meat is brown. Drain off fat.
1 Tbs. chili powder
2 tsp. cumin
2 tsp. basil
2 tsp. oregano
¼ C. flour
¼ C. brown sugar
Mix together and stir in with meat. Cook for 1 min.
45 oz. Italian style tomatoes, untrained
30 oz. black-eyed peas, drained
30 oz. red kidney beans, drained
3 -15 oz. pineapple chunks, untrained
3 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
Add the remaining ingredient and break the tomatoes into smaller chunks. Simmer 3 hours. Add water if necessary.