This Cincinnati-style chili recipe is a beloved favorite, known for its unique blend of spices and hearty meat. It is traditionally served over spaghetti noodles and topped with cheese, onions, and oyster crackers. With a touch of cinnamon and cocoa powder, this dish is packed with flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Follow this recipe to recreate the authentic taste of Skyline Chili in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the chili powder, cinnamon, cocoa powder, cumin, allspice, cloves, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
- Add the beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Serve the Skyline chili over cooked spaghetti noodles. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and oyster crackers.
Interesting Facts
Skyline Chili was first introduced by Nicholas Lambrinides in Cincinnati, Ohio in 194It was inspired by his family's traditional Greek recipes.
The unique spice blend in Skyline Chili includes cinnamon and cocoa powder, giving it a distinct flavor that sets it apart from other chili recipes.
Skyline Chili is not only enjoyed over spaghetti, but also in the form of coneys (hot dogs topped with chili) and chili cheese fries.
A popular way to order Skyline Chili is by specifying a 'way' - from plain (just chili) to five-way (chili, spaghetti, beans, onions, and cheese).