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Cincinnati Chili

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Cincinnati Chili is a Midwest classic — a spiced meat sauce flavored with cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and cocoa powder, traditionally served over spaghetti or hot dogs with customizable toppings. Its Mediterranean-inspired flavors make it a unique twist on chili.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 lb spaghetti, cooked (for serving)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (for serving)
  • 1 cup diced onions (optional, for serving)
  • 1 cup kidney beans (optional, for serving)
  • Oyster crackers (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, add ground beef and water. Bring to a boil, breaking up the meat, and simmer 30 minutes until cooked.
  2. Add onion and garlic, cooking 5 minutes more.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, cocoa powder, chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and bay leaf.
  4. Add apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well.
  5. Simmer uncovered on low for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  6. Remove bay leaf before serving.
  7. Serve over spaghetti and top as desired: 3-Way (spaghetti, chili, cheese); 4-Way (add onions or beans); 5-Way (add both onions and beans).

Notes

  • Flavor deepens overnight, making this a great make-ahead meal.
  • For spicier chili, add cayenne or hot sauce.
  • Keep covered or add water if chili becomes too thick during simmering.
  • Traditionally served with shredded cheddar, diced onions, beans, and oyster crackers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cincinnati-chili/