Steak and Black Bean Chili

This was the perfect recipe to make on a snow day!  The house smelled wonderful all day as it slowly simmered in the Crock Pot.  I found this recipe in a Southern Living Slow-Cooker Cookbook. Delicious!  -Claire

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 pounds boneless top sirloin steak, cubed
3 (15 ounce) cans black beans
2 (10 ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped onion, thawed
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 (12 oz.) bottle dark beer
1 cup water
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar

Toppings:  shredded Cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, sour cream, chopped jalapeno peppers, diced tomatoes.

Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat.  Add steak; cook 3-4 minutes; stirring constantly, or until browned.

Place steak in a 6 quart slow cooker; stir in black beans and next 10 ingredients.

Cover and cook on LOW 8 hours.  Serve with desired toppings.  Makes 14 cups.