Easy Chili

1 lb ground chuck
1 small onion, chopped fine
1 green pepper, chopped fine
1/2 bottle beer (optional)
1 can chili beans (drained)
1 can red kidney beans (drained)
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can ro-tel

2 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
1 clove garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
4 teaspoons finely chopped jalapeno chile peppers (optional)

1-2 tbsp hot sauce to taste
salt and pepper to taste

Two ways to prepare!

#1) In large saucepan or a stock pot, brown meat, onion, and pepper. Drain excess grease. Add beer and simmer until reduced. Add rest of ingredients, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 1 1/2 -2 hours, stirring occasionally.

#2)  In large saucepan or a stock pot, brown meat, onion, and pepper. Drain excess grease. Add to a slow cooker. Add rest of ingredients and simmer on low for 4 hours.