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Cincinnati Chili

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Cincinnati Chili is a unique, spiced meat sauce with hints of cinnamon, cocoa, and allspice, served over spaghetti and topped with cheese, onions, and beans. It’s a beloved Midwest classic with a one-of-a-kind flavor!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth (or water)
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 bay leaf

For Serving (Choose Your “Way”)

  • Cooked spaghetti (for 2-Way Chili)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (for 3-Way Chili)
  • Diced onions (for 4-Way Chili)
  • Kidney beans (for 5-Way Chili)
  • Oyster crackers (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  • Simmer the beef: In a large pot, add the ground beef and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and break up the beef into fine crumbles. Let it cook for about 10 minutes.
  • Add seasonings & tomato base: Stir in onion, garlic, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, cocoa powder, cinnamon, allspice, cumin, cloves, cayenne, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, salt, pepper, sugar, and bay leaf.
  • Slow simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This develops the signature deep flavor.
  • Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Serve the chili over spaghetti and top with your favorite “Way” (cheese, onions, and/or beans). Add oyster crackers for extra crunch!

Notes

  • Authentic Cincinnati Style: The meat should be very fine in texture. Simmering it in liquid instead of browning first creates the classic consistency.
  • Make ahead: Tastes even better the next day! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Mild or Spicy? Adjust the cayenne to taste.