Family Fun at the lake

Fall is here. The days are getting shorter, the nights are getting colder and it's the perfect time for some delicious fall comfort food. Epworth Forest is awesome in the fall with all the turning leaves on the trees with spectacular fall colors. It's an extremely cozy time of the year to enjoy fall walks and the two fireplaces. There are great trails around Lake Webster and a great place to walk your pets since we are a Indiana Pet Friendly Cabin.

We have a fully equipped kitchen and there is nothing like the warm aroma of a home cooked meal to enhance the setting of the natural log wood inside. If you are ready for new twist menu this fall season then try out this easy Pumpkin Chili recipe

PUMPKIN CHILI

~ An adventuresome autumn twist on traditional chili, rich in flavor and ... the simmering smell ... simply wonderful!

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2 lbs. lean ground beef

2 large chopped onions

1 chopped red pepper

1 chopped green pepper

4 cans (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes with juice

4 cans rinsed black beans

1 large can pumpkin puree

1 can sliced black olives (optional)

1 bottle (12 oz.) Pumpkin Ale

2 heaping Tbsp. chili powder (or more)

2 Tbsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. ground nutmeg

2 pinches of brown sugar

coarse salt & freshly ground pepper to taste

sour cream

chopped green onions

Cook beef in large stockpot until well browned. Drain excess fat.
Add onions and peppers and cook until soft. Add tomatoes and juice, beans, pumpkin, black olives, beer, spices, brown sugar, salt & pepper. Bring to boil, lower heat, cover and simmer for 1 hour. Adjust seasonings. Serve or refrigerate (even better).
Ladle hot chili into bowls and, if desired, top with dollop of sour cream and chopped green onions. Warm White Cheddar Scallion Muffins are delicious on the side.

Note: Easy make ahead treat for the cabin or for Indiana Weekend Getaway house guests.