Cincinnati Chili
A unique Midwestern classic, this meat sauce is simmered with a surprising blend of savory and warm spices like cinnamon and allspice. Perfect for serving over spaghetti or hot dogs for an authentic 'five-way' experience.
For 6 servings
6 steps. 180 minutes total.
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the cold beef broth and the ground beef
- a.Place over medium-high heat. As the mixture warms, use a whisk or potato masher to break the beef apart into very fine crumbles. This unique method prevents clumping and creates the chili's signature fine-grained texture. Continue until the meat is fully separated and the broth begins to boil, about 10-12 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Once boiling, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
- 3
Step 3
- a.In a small bowl, whisk together all the dry spices and seasonings: chili powder, cocoa powder, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, cayenne, oregano, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Add this spice mixture to the pot along with the bay leaf. Stir thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
- 4
Bring the chili to a steady simmer, then reduce the heat to low
- a.Cover partially with a lid, leaving a gap for steam to escape. Let it simmer for at least 3 hours, stirring every 20-30 minutes to prevent sticking. The chili is ready when it has thickened significantly and a thin layer of reddish oil has risen to the surface.
- 5
Remove the pot from the heat and discard the bay leaf
- a.Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. For the most authentic flavor, allow the chili to cool completely, then refrigerate overnight. This allows the complex flavors to meld and deepen.
- 6
When ready to serve, gently reheat the chili on the stovetop
- a.If refrigerated, you can easily skim any solidified fat from the surface before reheating. Serve hot over spaghetti, hot dogs, or with oyster crackers on the side.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Do not brown the beef first! The method of boiling it in broth is essential for the authentic, fine texture of Cincinnati chili.
- 2This chili is famously better the next day. Making it ahead allows the complex spice flavors to fully develop and meld together.
- 3Cincinnati Chili is traditionally served in 'ways': 2-Way (spaghetti, chili), 3-Way (plus shredded cheddar), 4-Way (plus diced onions or beans), or 5-Way (plus both onions and beans).
- 4The chili freezes exceptionally well. Cool it completely and store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- 5If your chili isn't as thick as you'd like after 3 hours, simply simmer it a bit longer with the lid off to allow more liquid to evaporate.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Substitute the ground beef with 2 lbs of plant-based ground 'meat' and use a rich vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
SpicierSpicier
Increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 tsp or add 1/4 tsp of habanero powder for a significant heat boost.
LeanerLeaner
Use ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef. You may need to add a tablespoon of oil to compensate for the lower fat content.
Slow CookerSlow Cooker
Follow step 1 on the stovetop. Transfer the mixture and all other ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The ground beef provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting immune function, and maintaining overall body strength.
Rich in Iron
Beef is a great source of heme iron, a type of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia, which can cause fatigue and weakness.
Antioxidant-Rich Spices
This recipe is loaded with spices like cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and cocoa powder, all of which are packed with antioxidants. These compounds help fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Cincinnati chili is a meat sauce with a finer texture, often served over spaghetti or hot dogs. It features a unique blend of Mediterranean-inspired spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cloves, and often includes chocolate or cocoa. Texas chili is a chunkier stew, typically made with cubes of beef, and focuses on chili peppers for its flavor profile, without beans or pasta.