Cincinnati Chili is a tasty blend of spices, ground beef, and tomato sauce, served over spaghetti. It’s a fun twist on chili that packs a savory punch!
This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl! I love loading mine up with cheese and onions, making it even more delicious. It’s comfort food that always hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of Cincinnati Chili. I recommend using a lean mix for less grease. If you’re looking for a healthier version, turkey or chicken can work well too!
Onion: Chopped onions add sweetness and depth. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can leave them out or use shallots for a milder flavor.
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves makes this chili unique. Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste, or try smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a different flavor profile.
Tomato Sauce: This adds richness. If you want a fresher taste, consider using crushed tomatoes or a can of diced tomatoes instead!
Kidney Beans: These are optional, but they can add protein and texture. Black beans or pinto beans are great substitutes if you prefer!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Beef for Cincinnati Chili?
Cooking the beef properly is key to a great texture in chili. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to brown the beef evenly. Avoid high heat, as it can make the meat tough.
- Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. This helps it cook thoroughly and mix better with the spices.
- If there’s excess fat, draining it can make your chili less greasy without losing flavor!
How Can I Enhance the Flavor of My Cincinnati Chili?
To get the best flavor from your chili, follow these steps:
- After adding the spices, let them cook for a couple of minutes before adding liquids. This toasts the spices and enhances their flavors.
- Allow the chili to simmer gently for at least an hour. The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavors become!
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar near the end for a nice tang that can brighten the dish.
Enjoy your hearty bowl of Cincinnati Chili, whether you choose to stick to the classic recipe or add your personal twist!
How to Make Cincinnati Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups water
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
For Serving:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping
- Finely chopped onions (optional, for topping)
- Oyster crackers (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cincinnati Chili will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 to 1.5 hours to cook. A little patience here is key for letting all those wonderful flavors develop!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or deep skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces as it cooks. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if you’d like. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook this mix until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes. This will give your chili a nice depth of flavor.
3. Mix in the Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is mixed well, so the spices coat the meat and onions evenly.
4. Add the Liquids:
Now it’s time to add the tomato sauce, water, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together, making sure it’s all well combined.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Partially cover the pot and let it cook gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Be sure to stir occasionally! This slow cooking allows the spices to beautifully infuse into the chili.
6. Optional Kidney Beans:
If you’re using kidney beans, stir them in about 10 minutes before the chili is done. They’ll warm up and complement the whole dish perfectly.
7. Cook the Spaghetti:
While the chili is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain it well – and don’t forget to save a little cooking water for later if needed!
8. Serve Your Chili:
To serve, plate a nice bed of spaghetti on each dish, then ladle a generous portion of Cincinnati chili over the top. 🙂 Next, add a heap of shredded cheddar cheese on top — yum!
9. Add Some Extras:
If desired, sprinkle some finely chopped raw onions on top and serve with oyster crackers on the side. Enjoy every spoonful of this hearty Cincinnati classic!
Now you have a delicious meal to share with family and friends. Cincinnati Chili is truly a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy! 🎉
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will reduce the fat content in the chili. Just be sure to season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor than beef.
How Can I Make Cincinnati Chili Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of lentils or your favorite plant-based meat substitute. You can also add more beans or some chopped vegetables for added texture and flavor.
Can I Store Leftover Cincinnati Chili?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
What Should I Serve with Cincinnati Chili?
Cincinnati Chili is traditionally served over spaghetti and topped with cheese. It’s also delicious alongside cornbread or served with oyster crackers for that classic crunch!
