1-First Step: Prepare ingredients Start by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic cloves, and rinsing and draining the canned beans to remove excess sodium and starch. Keep all ingredients measured and ready to simplify cooking.

2-Second Step: Brown the beef Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the lean ground beef and cook completely, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat, leaving 1 to 2 tablespoons for flavor if desired.

3-Third Step: Add spices to beef Sprinkle in cumin powder, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, coriander, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook the spices with the beef mixture for about 30 seconds to bloom the flavors fully.

4-Fourth Step: Combine in slow cooker Transfer the seasoned beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add drained black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (both plain and with green chilies), tomato sauce, and beef broth if using. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

5-Fifth Step: Set cooking time and temperature Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cooking allows flavors to blend beautifully and produces tender, hearty chili. For firmer beans, add kidney beans during the last 15 minutes.

6-Sixth Step: Adjust seasoning and serve Before serving, taste the chili and adjust seasoning if necessary adding more salt, pepper, or heat through cayenne or hot sauce. Serve hot with your choice of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.