Cincinnati Chili

Cincinnati Chili is a unique and flavorful chili with Mediterranean spices, served over spaghetti and topped with a variety of delicious toppings. Unlike traditional chili, this dish features a slightly sweet, rich sauce with hints of cinnamon, allspice, and cocoa. It’s traditionally served in “ways,” from a simple chili and spaghetti combo to fully loaded with beans, onions, and cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique and aromatic blend of spices
• Versatile “ways” to serve it, making it customizable
• Perfect comfort food for a hearty meal
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• A fun twist on traditional chili

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chili:

• 1 pound ground beef (80-85% lean)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

For Serving (Choose Your “Way”):

• 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked
• 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Oyster crackers (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Brown the Meat:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until fully browned.
   • If using olive oil, add it first, then sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Simmer the Chili:
   • Add all remaining ingredients, including beef broth, tomato sauce, tomato paste, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, spices, brown sugar, and bay leaf.
   • Stir well and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Simmer uncovered for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens.
3. Prepare the Spaghetti:
   • Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
4. Serve Cincinnati Chili “Ways”:
   • 1-Way: Just the chili in a bowl
   • 2-Way: Chili served over spaghetti
   • 3-Way: Chili, spaghetti, and shredded cheddar cheese
   • 4-Way: Add diced onions or kidney beans to the 3-Way
   • 5-Way: All of the above—chili, spaghetti, cheese, onions, and beans
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Optionally top with oyster crackers.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy the layers of flavor!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Cincinnati Chili: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Cincinnati Chili: Use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth.
• Spicy Chili: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Beans in the Chili: Add the kidney beans directly to the chili while it simmers.
• Crockpot Method: Cook browned meat and all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I make Cincinnati chili in advance?

Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

2. What makes Cincinnati chili different from traditional chili?

Cincinnati chili uses Mediterranean spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cocoa powder, giving it a unique sweet and savory flavor profile.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

Canned tomato sauce gives the chili its smooth consistency, but you can use fresh tomatoes blended into a sauce as a substitute.

4. Is Cincinnati chili supposed to be thick or thin?

Cincinnati chili is thinner than traditional chili, more like a sauce to coat the spaghetti. You can adjust the consistency by simmering longer or adding broth.

5. How do I keep the chili from being too sweet?

Adjust the amount of brown sugar or omit it if you prefer a less sweet chili.

6. Can I serve Cincinnati chili without pasta?

Yes, you can serve it as a standalone dish with toppings or over rice.

7. Can I use different pasta instead of spaghetti?

Yes, any long pasta like linguine or even short pasta like macaroni will work.

8. How do I make this chili gluten-free?

Ensure all ingredients, including Worcestershire sauce and broth, are gluten-free and serve over gluten-free pasta.

9. Can I add vegetables to this chili?

Yes, finely diced carrots or bell peppers can add extra nutrition and flavor.

10. What side dishes go well with Cincinnati chili?

Serve with a fresh green salad, cornbread, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Cincinnati Chili is a delicious and unique take on classic chili that offers a warm and aromatic blend of spices and a rich, flavorful sauce. With its versatile serving styles, this dish allows everyone to enjoy it their own way, whether as a simple bowl of chili or fully loaded with spaghetti, cheese, beans, and onions. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, or game days, this Cincinnati chili is sure to become a comfort food favorite!

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