Ultimate Cincinnati Chili Recipe: A Comforting Delight

Cincinnati Chili is not just a dish; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds with a delightful mix of spices, textures, and aromas. Imagine slathering rich, savory chili over a bed of spaghetti, sprinkled generously with cheese and onions, all while the scent wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. smoked sausage and potatoes It’s a bowl of comfort that beckons you to dive right in.

Every time I think of Cincinnati Chili, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air and bowls overflowed. This dish has a quirky allure that sparks joy on any occasion, from cozy winter nights to lively summer barbecues. Get ready to embark on an adventure of flavors that will make your taste buds dance! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Ingredients for Cincinnati Chili

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for the best flavor without excess fat; it keeps the chili hearty yet not too greasy.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; finely chop it for even distribution throughout the chili.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic depth; don’t skimp—use at least three cloves for robust flavor.
• Tomato Sauce: This is the base of your chili; opt for no-salt-added varieties to control sodium levels.

For the Spices:

• Cinnamon: A secret weapon in Cincinnati Chili; it adds warmth and complexity—trust me, it works wonders!
• Chili Powder: Choose your heat level; traditional recipes call for mild chili powder to balance flavors perfectly.
• Cumin: Adds earthy undertones that round out the spice profile; use ground cumin for ease.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cincinnati Chili

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large pot over medium heat, add ground beef and cook until browned. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks—this ensures even cooking and nice texture.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the meat is browned, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant—about five minutes should do it.

Step 3: Mix in Tomato Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce along with two cups of water. Stir well until everything combines smoothly—this forms the base of your chili.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle in cinnamon, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until all spices are well incorporated; let them mingle for about five minutes.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring your chili to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for at least one hour while you sip on something refreshing—this allows flavors to deepen wonderfully.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your Cincinnati Chili over cooked spaghetti or serve it alone garnished with shredded cheese and diced onions for an authentic experience. Enjoy every spoonful!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best Cincinnati Chili, start by browning your ground beef in a large pot. While it cooks, prepare your spices and aromatics. Once browned, add the onions and garlic before incorporating tomato sauce and broth. Let it simmer to meld those delightful flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Cincinnati Chili by swapping ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives. Want extra heat? Toss in some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. You can also experiment with toppings like shredded cheese or diced onions for that extra zing!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cincinnati Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Enjoy that fresh flavor again!

Sharing a bowl of Cincinnati Chili during game night became a cherished tradition in our home. The laughter and friendly banter paired with that rich aroma made every gathering unforgettable!

FAQs :

What is Cincinnati Chili?

Cincinnati chili is a unique take on traditional chili, characterized by its distinct blend of spices and seasonings. Unlike typical chili, it features a sweeter flavor profile due to the inclusion of cinnamon and chocolate. veggie lo mein recipe It often serves as a topping for spaghetti or hot dogs, creating a delicious and comforting dish that’s beloved in Cincinnati and beyond.

How do you serve Cincinnati Chili?

Cincinnati chili can be served in various ways. The most popular method is as a topping for spaghetti, known as “three-way,” which includes cheese. You can also enjoy it over hot dogs, referred to as “chili dogs.” For a heartier meal, serve it with beans or onions, adding extra flavor and texture to the dish.

Can I make Cincinnati Chili vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily prepare vegetarian Cincinnati chili by substituting ground meat with lentils, kidney beans, or plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for cooking. The spices remain the same, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors of this dish without any animal products.

How long does Cincinnati Chili last in the fridge?

Cincinnati chili typically lasts about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Properly frozen Cincinnati chili can last up to 4 months while maintaining its flavors and textures.

Conclusion for Cincinnati Chili :

Cincinnati chili offers a delightful twist on the traditional chili recipe with its unique spices and serving styles. Whether enjoyed over spaghetti or hot dogs, this dish brings comfort and flavor to any meal. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences by making it vegetarian. high protein chili recipe With proper storage methods, you can savor this iconic dish multiple times throughout the week. Embrace the flavors of Cincinnati chili and elevate your dinner experience!

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📖 Recipe Card

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Cincinnati Chili

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• Author: Liora
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Cincinnati Chili is a delightful fusion of flavors that transforms traditional chili into a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This savory recipe features lean ground beef simmered in a rich sauce infused with unique spices like cinnamon and chili powder, creating a sweet and spicy profile. Served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheese and onions, Cincinnati Chili is sure to please your taste buds. Easy to prepare and versatile, it’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 15 oz can no-salt-added tomato sauce
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp mild chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart for even texture.
2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about five minutes.
3. Pour in tomato sauce and water, stirring to combine.
4. Sprinkle in cinnamon, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; mix well.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil; reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for at least one hour to deepen flavors.
6. Serve over cooked spaghetti or alone, garnished with shredded cheese and diced onions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg