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Cincinnati chili brings together the warming spices of Mediterranean cuisine with classic American comfort food. It is uniquely savory sweet and fragrant with a silky texture and a depth of flavor that develops during a slow simmer and overnight chill. Serve it over spaghetti with a mountain of cheddar and you have a Midwest favorite that is unlike any other chili.
After making this for a college football Sunday I was amazed how it disappeared before halftime. The cinnamon and cocoa add something special that surprised everyone.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: brings richness while keeping the chili from being oily Choose the freshest possible and pat dry for a better texture
- Salt and black pepper: both boost beefy flavor
- Onion (diced): The sweetness mellows while cooking Look for firm onions without green shoots
- Water: acts as the key to achieving that signature loose consistency Filtered water tastes best
- Tomato paste: adds savory depth and balances spices Go for double concentrated if available
- Chili powder: This provides authentic color and pungency Choose a chili powder that is fresh and deep red
- Apple cider vinegar: adds tang Use raw unfiltered if possible
- Worcestershire sauce: brings umami Look for brands without added corn syrup
- Cocoa powder: makes the spice blend sing Use Dutch processed for deeper flavor
- Cinnamon: for that surprising warmth Use Ceylon when you can
- Cumin: classic earthiness dried and ground fresh if possible
- Cayenne pepper: the right hit of heat Opt for a vibrant red powder
- Allspice and cloves: create sweet spice backbone Store both in airtight containers for freshness
- Garlic (minced): for punch Use fresh cloves over jarred
- Bay leaf: infuses a little background herbal note Use whole fresh leaves for complexity
- Sugar or brown sugar: Sweetens and builds the sauce Brown sugar gives a bit of molasses richness
- Grated cheddar cheese: Prepare extra sharp for the best topping
- Optional toppings: Chopped onions kidney beans oyster crackers hot sauce Quality ingredients here really shine
- Spaghetti noodles (for serving): Go for Italian brands or cook al dente
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato Broth:
- In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet whisk together the water and tomato paste over medium high heat until smooth and dissolved
- Add the Beef:
- Break apart your raw ground beef directly into the pot using your fingers to create small meat bits Stir to evenly distribute The beef will cook gently in liquid creating the signature texture
- Build Flavor with Onion and Spices:
- Add diced onions salt pepper chili powder apple cider vinegar Worcestershire sauce cocoa powder cinnamon cumin cayenne allspice cloves minced garlic bay leaf and your sugar Blend everything thoroughly making sure all spices dissolve into the broth The aroma should be heady
- Simmer Long and Low:
- Bring the mixture to a moderate boil then immediately turn the heat down to a low simmer Cover the pot and let it gently bubble for two hours Stir every twenty minutes to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom This long slow simmer gives Cincinnati chili its special velvety body and melds all the flavors
- Cool and Rest Overnight:
- Take the pot off the heat and let the chili cool uncovered until just warm Cover and refrigerate overnight This step is non negotiable for authentic taste The flavors develop and excess fat rises for easy removal
- Remove Fat and Reheat:
- The next day gently skim off the chilled grease from the chili’s surface Heat slowly on the stove until steamy Serve as desired
Homemade chili tastes so much better than any restaurant version and I always look forward to stirring in fresh cheddar at the table My kids laugh at how tall I pile the cheese and it never goes to waste
Storage Tips
This chili keeps beautifully for up to three days in the refrigerator Store in a covered container and reheat gently to avoid burning the sugars If freezing portion into small batches to thaw what you need
Ingredient Substitutions
Turkey or plant based crumbles work for a lighter version but nothing matches classic beef White onion can be swapped for yellow Add a dash of smoked paprika if you want a subtle smoky layer
Serving Suggestions
Go all in with spaghetti topped with chili then cheese onions and beans for the famous five way Serve with crisp oyster crackers or on top of a hot dog for a chili cheese coney Pair with a cold root beer for a truly Cincinnati touch
Cultural Context
Cincinnati chili was invented by Macedonian immigrants and is more like a spiced meat sauce than traditional chili Its signature mix of Mediterranean spices sets it apart from Texas style chili and it is served in layers not alone
Seasonal Adaptations
During summer try using fresh heirloom tomatoes cooked down in place of tomato paste For fall add a pinch extra cinnamon to play up the warmth In winter I sometimes boost the cocoa powder just a bit for even more richness
Success Stories
Anytime I bring Cincinnati chili to a potluck someone asks for the recipe My husband requests it for every birthday It is a tradition in our house on snowy evenings often with friends over and everyone brings their own favorite topping
Freezer Meal Conversion
Let your pot cool fully and divide into meal prep containers Freeze flat for space saving Reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of water to loosen the texture before serving Tastes just as good as fresh
Easy to adapt with turkey or veggie crumbles Great way to use pantry spices that need rotating Feeds a crowd or freezes for last minute meals
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes Cincinnati chili unique?
Cincinnati chili uses ground beef simmered with tomato, cocoa, cinnamon, and spices, creating a distinct sweet and savory balance unlike traditional chili.
- → How is Cincinnati chili traditionally served?
It's commonly served over spaghetti or hot dogs, topped with cheddar cheese, onions, and beans for a layered meal.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the chili overnight enhances flavor and allows easy removal of grease before reheating to serve.
- → What are the best toppings for Cincinnati chili?
Grated cheddar cheese is essential, with optional chopped onions, kidney beans, oyster crackers, and hot sauce.
- → What side dishes pair well with Cincinnati chili?
A traditional Greek salad offers a fresh, crisp accompaniment alongside the rich, savory flavors of the chili.