Authentic Cincinnati Chili: A Midwest Comfort Classic
Cincinnati chili is a beloved regional dish with deep roots in the Midwest’s culinary traditions. Unlike the traditional Texan chili, this version boasts a unique blend of spices, including cinnamon, allspice, and cocoa powder, creating an unexpected but irresistible flavor. Adapted from recipes brought over by Greek immigrants, this hearty, meaty dish is commonly served over spaghetti, topped with a variety of additions like shredded cheese, onions, and beans.
Its rich and complex taste makes it a favorite comfort food, perfect for gatherings, football nights, or a cozy dinner at home. The distinct layering system—commonly known as “two-way,” “three-way,” and so on—allows you to customize your plate exactly to your liking. If you’ve never tried authentic Cincinnati chili, now’s the perfect time to dive into this flavorful experience!
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A rich and savory chili with sweet and spiced undertones from cinnamon and cocoa.
- Texture: Velvety and saucy with tender, crumbled beef that coats the pasta perfectly.
- Aroma: A warm bouquet of spices intertwined with simmering meat and tomato essence.
- Visual Appeal: Deep, reddish-brown chili topped with vibrant yellow shredded cheese and optional toppings.
- Skill Level Needed: Intermediate – requires patience in simmering and layering ingredients correctly.
- Special Equipment: Large stockpot, wooden spoon, and a fine-mesh strainer for skimming fat.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: This recipe sits at an intermediate level due to the slow-simmering technique needed to achieve the perfect consistency and flavor balance.
- Category: Comfort food, main dish, Midwest cuisine, and family-friendly dinner.
- Cuisine: A fusion of Greek and American flavors, representing Cincinnati’s vibrant food culture.
- Cost: An affordable dish using pantry staples with an approximate per-serving breakdown of $2.50–$3.
- Season: Perfect for fall and winter but just as enjoyable any time comfort food is needed.
- Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, game nights, potlucks, and winter gatherings.
The Recipe
Authentic Cincinnati Chili
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large stockpot
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 quart water
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb spaghetti, cooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup kidney beans (optional)
Directions
- In a large stockpot, add the ground beef and water. Break apart the meat with a spoon and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Once the beef is fully browned, stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, and all the dry spices.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, vinegar, and sugar; stir well.
- Simmer uncovered for 2 hours on low heat, stirring occasionally.
- If any fat accumulates on the surface, skim it off with a spoon or fine-mesh strainer.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions and drain well.
- To serve, ladle the chili over the spaghetti and top with your choice of cheese, onions, or beans.
Recipe Notes
- For a thicker consistency, simmer the chili uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
- Want a bolder flavor? Let chili rest in the fridge overnight before reheating and serving.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
- Freeze leftovers: This chili freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Authentic Cincinnati Chili delivers iconic, comforting Midwest flavors that have endured generations. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, this recipe promises a truly satisfying meal. Try it at home and share your experience with us in the comments!