The Ultimate Guide to Making Cincinnati Chili Like a Pro
Cincinnati Chili is a unique style of chili that originated in Cincinnati, Ohio in the early 20th century. It’s a regional favorite and has a distinct flavor that sets it apart from other types of chili. In this article, we’ll explore the history and ingredients of Cincinnati Chili, as well as how to make it at home.
What is Cincinnati Chili?
Cincinnati Chili is a type of chili that’s typically served over spaghetti or hot dogs. It has a thinner consistency than traditional chili and is seasoned with a blend of spices that gives it a unique flavor. The origins of Cincinnati Chili can be traced back to the early 20th century, when Greek immigrants in Cincinnati started serving chili over spaghetti as a way to appeal to American tastes.
The Ingredients of Cincinnati Chili
The ingredients of Cincinnati Chili are what give it its unique flavor. Here’s a list of the main ingredients:
- Ground beef: Typically, Cincinnati Chili is made with ground beef that’s been cooked and drained of excess fat.
- Spices: Cincinnati Chili is seasoned with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and cumin. These spices give the chili its distinct flavor.
- Tomato sauce: Tomato sauce is the base of Cincinnati Chili. It’s typically combined with water to create a thinner consistency.
- Chocolate: One unusual ingredient in Cincinnati Chili is chocolate. A small amount of unsweetened chocolate is added to the chili, which gives it a subtle sweetness and helps to balance out the spices.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 cups water
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Spaghetti, cooked according to package directions
Instructions:
Step-1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step-2. Add the ground beef, onion, and green pepper to the pot and cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft.
Step-3. Add the chili powder, cinnamon, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and paprika to the pot and stir to combine.
Step-4. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, cocoa powder, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot and mix to combine.
Step-5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step-6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step-7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Enjoy!😊
Cincinnati Chili is a unique twist on a classic dish. Its blend of spices and unusual ingredients give it a distinct flavor that’s sure to please. Whether you’re a fan of traditional chili or you’re looking for something new, Cincinnati Chili is definitely worth a try.
