Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a chili that’s unlike any you’ve had before? Introducing Cincinnati-style chili—a regional favorite that’s a well-kept secret outside Ohio. This unique dish blends unexpected spices like cinnamon and cocoa to create a hearty meal that’s both savory and subtly sweet. Perfect for family dinners or game-day gatherings, this chili is sure to become a beloved recipe in your household. Let’s bring a touch of Cincinnati to your kitchen!
Cincinnati takes pride in its distinctive chili—a departure from the traditional Tex-Mex style found elsewhere. Infused with spices like cinnamon, allspice, and even a hint of chocolate, this chili offers a flavor experience that’s truly one of a kind. Served over spaghetti and customizable with a variety of toppings, it’s a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 pound (450 grams) extra-lean ground beef
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder or 1/2 ounce (15 grams) grated unsweetened chocolate
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces / 425 grams)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) water
- 1 package uncooked dried spaghetti pasta (16 ounces / 450 grams)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, sauté the chopped onion, extra-lean ground beef, minced garlic, and chili powder until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the ground allspice, cinnamon, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder or grated chocolate. Mix well to combine the flavors.
- Incorporate Liquids: Pour in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, cider vinegar, and water. Stir thoroughly to blend all the ingredients.
- Simmer the Chili: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Cook the Spaghetti: While the chili is simmering, cook the spaghetti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Finalize the Chili: After simmering, remove the chili from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble Your Dish: For a traditional Cincinnati experience, place a serving of spaghetti on a plate and top it with the chili.
- Choose Your Way:
- 2-Way: Spaghetti topped with chili.
- 3-Way: Spaghetti, chili, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- 4-Way: Spaghetti, chili, diced onions or red kidney beans, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- 5-Way: Spaghetti, chili, diced onions, red kidney beans, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your customized Cincinnati-style chili hot, and enjoy the unique blend of flavors!
Diving into a bowl of Cincinnati-style chili is more than just enjoying a meal—it’s experiencing a culinary tradition that has been cherished for generations. The unexpected combination of spices creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re sharing it with friends at a casual get-together or serving it as a family dinner, this dish is sure to spark conversations and create lasting memories. So why not shake up your usual chili routine and savor the distinctive taste of Cincinnati right at home?
