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Cincinnati Chili

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This Cincinnati Chili recipe is a bold and comforting dish made with a unique blend of spices like cinnamon, cocoa, and cloves. Traditionally served over spaghetti and customizable with toppings like cheese, onions, and beans, it’s a hearty meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 lb spaghetti, cooked (for serving)
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional topping)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional topping)
  • Oyster crackers (optional side)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth until well combined.
  4. Add the vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cocoa powder, and all the spices (cinnamon, allspice, cloves, cumin, chili powder, bay leaf, sugar, salt, and pepper).
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. To serve, spoon the chili over cooked spaghetti and top with your choice of beans, chopped onions, and cheddar cheese.
  8. Enjoy with oyster crackers on the side, if desired.

Notes

  • Chili tastes even better the next day—great for meal prep.
  • Customize heat by adding cayenne or hot sauce.
  • Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor instead of cocoa powder.
  • Substitute beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for dietary preferences.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/cincinnati-chili/