Cincinnati Chili Skyline Copycat (Print Version)
Hearty Cincinnati-style chili, rich with beef, signature spices, and savory toppings for true comfort food flair.
# Ingredients:
→ Chili Base
01 -
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
02 -
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
03 -
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
04 -
1 medium onion, diced
05 -
4 cups water
06 -
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
07 -
1/4 cup chili powder
08 -
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
09 -
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
10 -
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
11 -
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
12 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
13 -
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
14 -
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
15 -
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
16 -
3 garlic cloves, minced
17 -
1 bay leaf
18 -
2 tablespoons granulated sugar or brown sugar
→ Toppings and Sides
19 -
Grated cheddar cheese
20 -
Chopped onions (optional)
21 -
Kidney beans (optional)
22 -
Oyster crackers (optional)
23 -
Hot chili sauce (optional)
24 -
Spaghetti noodles, cooked, for serving (optional)
25 -
Traditional Greek salad, as a side (optional)
# Steps:
01 -
In a large skillet or Dutch oven set over medium-high heat, whisk together the water and tomato paste until thoroughly blended.
02 -
Add the raw ground beef to the tomato mixture, breaking it apart and crumbling with your fingers for even dispersion.
03 -
Stir the onion, salt, black pepper, chili powder, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cocoa powder, cinnamon, cumin, cayenne pepper, allspice, cloves, minced garlic, bay leaf, and sugar into the pot. Mix thoroughly to combine.
04 -
Bring the contents to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
05 -
Remove the pot from heat and let cool. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld and fat to solidify.
06 -
Skim any solidified grease from the surface, discard the bay leaf, and reheat the chili base over medium heat until fully warmed through before serving.
07 -
Portion the chili into bowls, over hot dogs, or atop cooked spaghetti noodles. Garnish generously with grated cheddar cheese and offer additional toppings such as chopped onions, kidney beans, oyster crackers, and hot chili sauce. Serve with a side of traditional Greek salad if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For optimal flavor development and easier fat removal, prepare a day in advance and chill overnight.