Description
Cincinnati Chili is a unique and flavorful chili that blends ground beef with aromatic spices, tomato sauce, and a hint of cocoa and cinnamon. Slow-simmered to develop rich depth, it’s traditionally served over spaghetti or hot dogs, creating a beloved regional comfort food perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 4 cups water
- 1 large onion, diced small
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
Spices and Flavorings
- 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp all-spice
- 1 tsp cumin
- 3 Tbs chili powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 Tbs cocoa powder
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 Tbs apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large pot, combine the ground beef and water. Bring to a boil, stirring the beef until it breaks into small pieces. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for about 30 minutes, allowing the beef to cook thoroughly and tenderize.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in the diced onion, tomato sauce, minced garlic, all-spice, cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, cocoa powder, bay leaves, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors evenly.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil again, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for approximately 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow simmering thickens the chili and allows the complex flavors to develop deeply.
- Serve: After the chili has thickened, remove the bay leaves and serve hot. Traditionally, Cincinnati Chili is spooned over cooked spaghetti or used as a topping for hot dogs, creating iconic and delicious dishes.
Notes
- For authenticity, serve the chili over spaghetti or hot dogs, or experiment by adding shredded cheddar and onions as toppings.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to taste if you prefer a milder or spicier chili.
- Simmering uncovered is key to achieving the perfect thickness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
