Cincinnati Chili is a distinctive and beloved dish that originated in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio. This unique style of chili offers a delightful combination of warm spices, aromatic flavors, and a hint of sweetness. Unlike traditional chili recipes, Cincinnati Chili is typically served over spaghetti and topped with an array of toppings, creating a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Join us as we explore the history and details of this iconic recipe, taking you on a journey through the flavors of Cincinnati’s culinary heritage.

Cincinnati Chili has deep roots in the city’s diverse culinary landscape. It traces its origins back to the early 20th century when Greek and Macedonian immigrants introduced their own variations of Mediterranean-style spiced meat dishes to Cincinnati.

The story of Cincinnati Chili begins with Empress Chili, which opened in 1922 and is considered one of the first chili parlors in the city. Macedonian immigrant brothers Tom and John Kiradjieff brought their family recipe from their homeland, featuring a blend of spices and a unique cooking method.

The classic Cincinnati Chili recipe consists of ground meat, commonly beef, combined with a flavorful mixture of spices, including cinnamon, cumin, allspice, cloves, and cocoa powder. This combination of warm and aromatic spices gives Cincinnati Chili its distinctive taste.

The meat is typically cooked in a broth seasoned with the spice mixture, resulting in a smooth and flavorful sauce. The cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and complex chili base.

Cincinnati Chili is characterized by its texture, which is finer and smoother compared to traditional chili. The meat is usually finely ground, almost resembling a paste, resulting in a silky consistency that coats the spaghetti noodles.

The serving styles of Cincinnati Chili are known as “ways” and are as unique as the recipe itself. The most common ways to enjoy Cincinnati Chili are:

1. Two-Way: Spaghetti topped with Cincinnati Chili.
2. Three-Way: Spaghetti, Cincinnati Chili, and a generous layer of finely grated cheddar cheese.
3. Four-Way: Spaghetti, Cincinnati Chili, grated cheddar cheese, and diced onions.
4. Five-Way: Spaghetti, Cincinnati Chili, grated cheddar cheese, diced onions, and kidney beans.

The addition of toppings enhances the flavor profile and adds contrasting textures to the dish. Oyster crackers are often served on the side for dipping and adding a satisfying crunch.

Cincinnati Chili has become deeply ingrained in the local culinary culture and has gained popularity beyond the city’s borders. Numerous chili parlors and restaurants in Cincinnati serve their own unique variations of this beloved dish, each adding their own twist to the classic recipe.

PREP: 20 MIN.

COOK: 1¾ HOURS

MAKES: 8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Spaghetti noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• Toppings: Finely grated cheddar cheese, diced onions, kidney beans (optional), oyster crackers

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small crumbles.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
4. Stir in the chili powder, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, ground allspice, ground cloves, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to coat the meat and onions with the spices.
5. Pour in the beef broth, water, and apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings if needed. Add more salt or spices according to your preference.
8. While the chili simmers, cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked noodles.
9. To serve, place a portion of spaghetti on a plate or in a bowl.
10. Ladle a generous amount of Cincinnati Chili over the spaghetti.
11. Add your desired toppings, such as finely grated cheddar cheese, diced onions, and kidney beans (if desired).
12. Serve the Cincinnati Chili hot, accompanied by oyster crackers on the side.

NOTES:

• Indulge in the unique and flavorful experience of Cincinnati Chili, savoring the aromatic spices and silky texture that make this dish so beloved. Whether you enjoy it as a Two-Way, Three-Way, Four-Way, or Five-Way, this iconic recipe celebrates the fusion of flavors and culinary heritage of Cincinnati. Delight in the delicious traditions of Cincinnati Chili, creating a memorable dining experience that pays homage to this culinary gem.