Autumn Tablescape *plus* a Warming Chili Recipe

Happy Thursday, My Lovelies!  We've been fluffing our home for autumn, and I must admit I miss our cooler temperatures from last week because it's flipping hot here today!

Let's take a look at my latest tablescape for autumn:

These napkins match the rooster table runner.

I've been collecting glass pumpkins for years.  The three glass acorns from Pier1 are my newest additions (new this year).

Here are a few of our glass pumpkins from around the house:

I like the Halloween-inspired votives on our mantel.  I found these at Leaf 'n Petal.

Autumn votives in the art studio

Plush pumpkins!

As promised, here is a wonderful recipe featured at The Fresh Market this month.  I followed the recipe as written.

Mole Style Chili

Ingredients:

1 lb. ground chuck

1 c onion, chopped

1 clove garlic , chopped

1/3 c Starborough Sauvignon Blanc

1 oz Scharffenberger 99% unsweetened baking chocolate bar, coarsely chopped

1 14.5 oz can fire roasted tomatoes, undrained

1 c water

2 tbsp chili powder, substitute 1 tbsp chipotle chili powder if you prefer (I did!)

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp salt & pepper

sour cream and cilantro as garnish

Preparation:

Cook beef in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until browned, stirring using a wooden spoon to crumble. Drain, if necessary, set beef aside and return pan to heat.  

Lowder heat to medium and add onion and garlic; cook 4 minutes or until tender. 

Add Starborough Sauvignon Blanc and use a wooden spoon to scrap up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.  Add Scharffenberger baking chocolate, tomatoes, water and bring to a simmer. Add cooked beef, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper; cover and simmer 20-25 minutes. 

Serve hot topped with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro.

Serves 6

This is an easy chili for a busy weeknight!

Have a cozy evening!  

Come back tomorrow for Literary Friday and next week for Halloween decor!

Until next time...

Blessings!
Ricki Jill