congressional chili

this comes from a cookbook called peace meals. this recipe was printed in house beautiful a while ago. we thought it was quite delicious.

1 Tbs olive oil
2 med yellow onions, diced
2 green bell peppers, diced
2 cloves garlic, pressed
coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
2 1/2 lbs ground beef, preferably sirloin
16 oz canned tomato sauce
3 Tbs prepared red mole (can be found in mexican food aisle)
3 Tbs chili powder
3 cups water
32 oz canned kidney beans
shredded cheddar cheese
diced onions
sour cream (our addition)
tortilla chips (our addition)

heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium. add the onions, peppers, and garlic. saute until the onions are translucent and the peppers begin to soften. season with salt and pepper and set aside. brown the beef in a soup pot; drain off any excess fat. add half of the sauteed onion-pepper mix to the meat. stir in the tomato sauce, mole, chili powder, and water. bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes. adjust the seasoning by adding additional salt, pepper, mole, or chili powder. simmer for 30 minutes. add the beans and the remaining half of the onion-pepper mixture. cook for 15 minutes. serve topped with cheese and onions.