In a large skillet, brown the meat with onion and garlic. Breaking the meat into crumbles as it cooks.
Preheat smoker to 250℉ and add wood chunks.
In a large roast pan or foil pan, add canned tomatoes, beans, jalapeno (if using) and spices.
Drain fat from meat and add meat to roast pan.
Stir to combine. Place bacon strips on top.
Place pan in smoker, uncovered.
Allow to smoke for one hour, maintaining the heat at 250℉ and adding wood as needed.
After one hour, cover the pan with aluminum foil and allow to simmer at 300℉ for 3 hours.
Stir every 30 minutes.
Chili is ready when it is thick and tomatoes have broken down.
Remove from heat and serve with favourite toppings.
Store leftovers in air-tight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.