Description
Cincinnati Chili is a flavorful and unique American Midwestern dish featuring ground beef simmered with a distinctive blend of spices including cinnamon, cloves, and unsweetened chocolate. Served traditionally over spaghetti with various toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, onions, and beans, this hearty chili offers a sweet and savory profile perfect for family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 quart water
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 square (1 oz) unsweetened chocolate
Optional Ingredients & Toppings
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Kidney beans
- Chopped onions
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Oyster crackers
Instructions
- Prepare and cook the beef: In a large pot, crumble the ground beef into the quart of water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir frequently to break the beef into smaller pieces.
- Simmer the beef: Reduce heat to low and let the beef simmer for 30 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during this period to keep the chili clear and flavorful.
- Add the flavor base: Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, ground cinnamon, cumin, allspice, cloves, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, chopped onion, bay leaf, and the unsweetened chocolate square. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Slow simmer: Allow the chili to simmer uncovered on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure all flavors meld beautifully. The slow cooking develops the complex, signature flavor of Cincinnati chili.
- Finish and remove bay leaf: Before serving, remove the bay leaf from the chili to avoid any bitter notes.
- Serve: Traditionally serve the chili over cooked spaghetti. Add optional toppings based on preferences such as shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, kidney beans, and oyster crackers for texture and added flavor.
- Classic serving styles: Enjoy your meal served as 2-Way (chili over spaghetti), 3-Way (chili, spaghetti, and cheese), 4-Way (chili, spaghetti, cheese, plus onions or beans), or 5-Way (chili, spaghetti, cheese, onions, and beans).
Notes
- For best flavor, make Cincinnati chili a day in advance to allow the spices to deepen and develop fully.
- This chili freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers.
- The unique spice blend including cinnamon and unsweetened chocolate sets Cincinnati chili apart from other chili styles with a sweet and savory taste.
- Optional toppings can be customized based on dietary preferences and taste.
