Cincinnati Chili
Cincinnati Chili is a unique and flavorful dish characterized by its distinct blend of spices, typically served over spaghetti.
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.
Notes
Leftover Cincinnati Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.