Learn how to make authentic Cincinnati chili, a delicious and unique dish that originated in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio. This chili is a thin and savory sauce typically served over spaghetti and topped with a variety of delicious toppings, such as shredded cheese, onions, and beans. It is a comfort food staple in the Midwest and is enjoyed by people of all ages. Follow this recipe to recreate the flavors of Cincinnati in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 cups chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked spaghetti, for serving
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping
- Chopped onions, for topping
- Red kidney beans, for topping
- Oyster crackers, for serving
Directions
- In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, chili powder, cocoa powder, Worcestershire sauce, cinnamon, cumin, allspice, cloves, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- To serve, place a serving of cooked spaghetti in a bowl. Ladle the chili over the spaghetti. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, and red kidney beans. Serve with oyster crackers on the side.
- Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Cincinnati chili is also known as 'skyline chili' due to the popularity of the Skyline Chili restaurant chain in Cincinnati.
The unique flavor of Cincinnati chili comes from a blend of spices, such as cinnamon, cocoa powder, and allspice, which sets it apart from traditional chili recipes.
Cincinnati chili is traditionally served in five ways: two-way (chili over spaghetti), three-way (chili, spaghetti, and cheese), four-way (chili, spaghetti, cheese, and onions), and five-way (chili, spaghetti, cheese, onions, and beans).
This recipe can be customized with additional toppings such as hot sauce, sour cream, or jalapenos, according to personal preference.