The BEST Slow Cooker Beef Chili

This slow cooker beef chili is reminiscent of the chilis I devoured growing up, but with an amplified, richer flavor thanks to a slew of secret ingredients. It's sophisticated yet nostalgic—perfect for any crowd or occasion. There's no better meal to snuggle up with on a snow day, game day or plain ‘ole Sunday.

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 pounds ground beef
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, finely diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

• 1 28- ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 cup strained tomatoes (such as Pomi brand)
• 1 cup beer (lager or pale ale, gluten-free if needed)
• 1 15- ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 canned chipotle chile, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon raw cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder

• Toppings, such as: chopped tomatoes, sliced scallions, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream and/or pickled jalapeños
• Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread Muffins (optional)