Go Back
–+ servings
cincinnati chili simmering process

Authentic Cincinnati Chili

This iconic Cincinnati chili brings together warm spices like cinnamon, allspice, and chocolate to create a uniquely sweet and savory sauce perfect for serving over spaghetti. Serve it "5-way" with cheese, onions, beans, and crackers for the full Queen City experience that locals have cherished for generations.
No ratings yet
Print Pin Save
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chili
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 285kcal

Equipment

Chopping Board
Chef's Knife
Stockpot

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground chuck
  • 2 medium onions finely chopped
  • 1 quart water
  • 2 8 ounce cans tomato sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 ounce unsweetened chocolate
  • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
  • 1 bay leaf crumbled
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 drops Tabasco sauce
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 beef bouillon cubes

Instructions

  • Bring water to a boil in a large pot and add ground beef.
  • Stir constantly until beef is completely separated and broken up.
  • Add all remaining ingredients to the pot.
  • Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until mixture has thickened.
  • Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
  • Refrigerate overnight.
  • Remove and discard any accumulated fat from surface.
  • Reheat before serving.
  • Serve over cooked spaghetti with desired accompaniments: finely grated cheddar cheese, chopped raw onion, cooked kidney beans, and oyster crackers.

Notes

The overnight refrigeration step is essential for proper flavor development and allows easy fat removal
Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef thoroughly when adding to boiling water for the finest texture
The chocolate adds depth without sweetness - do not substitute milk or semi-sweet chocolate
Start checking consistency at 2 hours of simmering; the chili should coat a spoon but not be too thick
Leftover chili freezes well for up to 3 months and actually improves in flavor
For authentic serving, use thin spaghetti rather than thick pasta varieties

Nutrition

Serving: 120g | Calories: 285kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 187g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 580mg | Potassium: 520mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g