Cincinnati Chili is a unique and flavorful dish that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many. Known for its distinct blend of spices and ingredients, this chili is often served over spaghetti, making it different from the traditional chili you might be used to. People in Cincinnati have enjoyed this dish for generations, and now you can make it at home!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a hearty meal that is full of flavor. Cincinnati Chili is versatile and can be served in various ways, whether you prefer it over spaghetti or as a topping for hot dogs. Plus, it is great for family gatherings or potlucks! Making it yourself also means you can customize the flavors to your liking.
How to Make Cincinnati Chili
Making Cincinnati Chili is easier than you might think! Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare this delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 4 cups water (may substitute 2 cups water and 2 cups beef broth)
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- ½ cup finely diced onion
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 ounce dark chocolate (or 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder)
- 1 bay leaf
- Cooked spaghetti noodles
- Hot dogs (optional)
- Beans (optional)
- Diced onion (optional)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Oyster crackers (optional)
Directions
- In a large Dutch oven, add 4 cups of water and 6 ounces of tomato paste. Whisk to combine.
- Crumble 2 pounds of lean ground beef and add it to the Dutch oven.
- Add ½ cup finely diced onion, 3 tablespoons chili powder, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ground allspice, ¼ teaspoon ground cloves, 1 ounce dark chocolate, and 1 bay leaf to the Dutch oven. Stir everything together.
- Bring the pot to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, cover and lower the heat to low. Let the chili simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Skim any grease from the top as needed.
- Remove the chili from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Cover and store it in the refrigerator overnight.
- After the chili has cooled overnight, use a spoon to break up and remove any grease on the top of the chili.
- Heat the chili over medium heat until it is fully heated through.
- Serve warm over cooked spaghetti noodles or hot dogs and top with beans, diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and oyster crackers.
How to Serve Cincinnati Chili
Cincinnati Chili is typically served over a bed of cooked spaghetti noodles. You can add hot dogs on the side or break them up and stir them in. Popular toppings include kidney beans, diced onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and oyster crackers for a delightful crunch.
How to Store Cincinnati Chili
Leftover Cincinnati Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze the chili in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Cincinnati Chili
- For deeper flavor, let the chili simmer longer.
- Be adjustable with the spices; if you like it spicier, add more chili powder or even diced jalapeños.
- Serve with warm crusty bread for a complete meal.
Variation
If you’d like to try something different, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian!
FAQs
1. Can I make Cincinnati Chili in advance?
Yes! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
2. What is the history of Cincinnati Chili?
Cincinnati Chili has roots in Greek immigrant cuisine and became popular in Cincinnati during the 1920s. Its unique blend of spices is what sets it apart from other chili recipes.
3. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! Besides ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegan meat alternatives for a different twist.
Cincinnati Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 4 cups water (may substitute 2 cups water and 2 cups beef broth) You can use a mix of water and beef broth for added flavor.
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- ½ cup finely diced onion
- 3 tablespoons chili powder Adjust for spice preference.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 ounce dark chocolate (or 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder) Use unsweetened cocoa powder as a substitute if desired.
- 1 each bay leaf
For Serving
- Cooked spaghetti noodles Cincinnati chili is traditionally served over spaghetti.
- Hot dogs (optional) Can be served alongside or mixed in.
- Beans (optional) Common toppings include kidney beans.
- Diced onion (optional)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Oyster crackers (optional) For a delightful crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large Dutch oven, add 4 cups of water and 6 ounces of tomato paste. Whisk to combine.
- Crumble 2 pounds of lean ground beef and add it to the Dutch oven.
- Add finely diced onion, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, salt, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, ground cloves, dark chocolate, and a bay leaf to the Dutch oven. Stir everything together.
Cooking
- Bring the pot to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, cover and lower the heat to low.
- Let the chili simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Skim any grease from the top as needed.
Cooling
- Remove the chili from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Cover and store it in the refrigerator overnight.
- After the chili has cooled overnight, use a spoon to break up and remove any grease on the top of the chili.
Serving
- Heat the chili over medium heat until it is fully heated through.
- Serve warm over cooked spaghetti noodles or hot dogs and top with beans, diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and oyster crackers.
