Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Cincinnati Chili is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, not just because it’s incredibly delicious, but because it’s a taste of home. Growing up in Ohio, Skyline Chili was a frequent and much-loved family meal. Moving away, those unique, spiced chili cravings hit hard. So, when I stumbled upon this copycat Skyline Chili recipe, I was both excited and skeptical. Could it truly capture that distinct Cincinnati flavor? After making it for my family, I can confidently say, yes! The aroma filling the kitchen was instantly nostalgic, and the first bite transported us right back to those cozy Skyline dinners. Even my kids, who are usually picky eaters, devoured it, requesting “more of that yummy spaghetti chili stuff!” This recipe isn’t just good; it’s a comforting, authentic taste of Cincinnati, made right in your own kitchen. If you’re missing Skyline or simply curious about this iconic dish, you absolutely have to try this recipe. You won’t be disappointed.

Cincinnati Chili: A Taste of the Queen City at Home

Cincinnati Chili is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary experience, a regional icon, and for many, a taste of home. Originating in Cincinnati, Ohio, this distinctive chili is unlike any other you might have encountered. Forget the hearty, chunky Texas-style chili; Cincinnati Chili is a thin, almost sauce-like concoction, richly spiced with a unique blend of flavors that often surprise first-timers. At its heart, it’s a Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce, poured over spaghetti and generously topped with cheese, onions, and beans – the famous “ways” that define the Cincinnati Chili experience.

Skyline Chili, one of the most beloved and recognizable Cincinnati Chili parlors, has been serving up this Queen City staple since 1949. Their distinctive flavor profile, a closely guarded secret, has captivated generations of chili enthusiasts. But what if you don’t live near a Skyline Chili? What if you crave that comforting, spiced chili but find yourself miles away from Ohio? That’s where this copycat Skyline Chili recipe comes to the rescue.

This meticulously crafted recipe aims to bring the authentic taste of Skyline Chili directly to your kitchen. It’s designed to replicate that signature blend of spices, the delicate balance of sweet and savory, and the distinctive texture that makes Cincinnati Chili so unique. Whether you’re a homesick Ohioan yearning for a taste of Skyline, or a culinary adventurer eager to explore a new and exciting flavor profile, this recipe is your gateway to the wonderful world of Cincinnati Chili. Prepare to be surprised, delighted, and utterly satisfied as you recreate this Queen City classic in the comfort of your own home.

Gather Your Ingredients for Authentic Cincinnati Chili

The magic of Cincinnati Chili lies in its unique blend of spices and the specific ingredients that contribute to its distinctive flavor profile. While the ingredient list might seem a bit longer than your average chili recipe, each component plays a crucial role in achieving that authentic Skyline Chili taste. Let’s break down the ingredients and understand why each one is essential.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pound lean ground beef: The foundation of our chili, lean ground beef provides the meaty base. Using lean beef is important as we will be skimming off excess fat later, ensuring the chili isn’t greasy. The quality of the beef matters, so opt for a good grade of lean ground beef for the best flavor.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt: Salt is the fundamental flavor enhancer, bringing out the best in all the other ingredients. It’s crucial for seasoning the beef and balancing the overall flavor profile of the chili.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a touch of warmth and subtle spice, complementing the other spices in the recipe. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its brighter flavor.
• 1 onion, diced: Onion provides a foundational aromatic base for the chili. Diced onion cooks down and adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that is essential to the overall complexity of the chili. Yellow or white onions work best for their milder flavor when cooked for a long time.
• 4 cups water: Water is the liquid base of Cincinnati Chili, contributing to its thinner, sauce-like consistency. The water helps to simmer the beef and spices together, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen over time.
• 1 6 ounce can tomato paste: Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes, adding a rich tomato flavor and depth of color to the chili. It also helps to thicken the sauce slightly and provides a tangy counterpoint to the other spices. Using tomato paste instead of diced tomatoes is key to achieving the smooth texture of Cincinnati Chili.
• 1/4 cup chili powder: Chili powder is a blend of spices, typically including dried chili peppers, cumin, oregano, and garlic powder. It provides the primary chili flavor and a mild heat. While this is a copycat recipe, using a good quality chili powder is important for achieving a complex flavor.
• 2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a crucial element of acidity and brightness to Cincinnati Chili. It cuts through the richness of the beef and spices, adding a tangy counterpoint that balances the overall flavor profile. The vinegar is a key ingredient in the distinctive Cincinnati Chili taste.
• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce is a fermented condiment that adds a savory umami depth to the chili. Its complex flavor profile, with notes of vinegar, molasses, and anchovies, enhances the overall richness and complexity of the chili.
• 1 Tablespoon cocoa powder: This might seem like an unusual ingredient in chili, but cocoa powder is a secret weapon in Cincinnati Chili. It adds a subtle depth of flavor, a hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness, and a richness that rounds out the spice profile. Unsweetened cocoa powder is essential; avoid using sweetened cocoa mixes.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Cinnamon is one of the signature spices in Cincinnati Chili, contributing to its unique Mediterranean-inspired flavor. It adds a warm, sweet, and slightly earthy note that is instantly recognizable. Don’t skip the cinnamon; it’s a crucial element of the authentic taste.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Cumin adds a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor to the chili. It complements the chili powder and other spices, adding depth and complexity to the overall spice blend.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a touch of heat to Cincinnati Chili. While it’s not meant to be overly spicy, a little cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness and other spices. Adjust the amount to your preference if you prefer a milder or spicier chili.
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice: Allspice adds a warm, complex flavor that is reminiscent of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It complements the other spices and contributes to the overall depth and aromatic complexity of Cincinnati Chili.
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves: Cloves are a potent spice, adding a warm, pungent, and slightly sweet flavor. Just a small amount of cloves enhances the other spices and contributes to the unique aromatic profile of Cincinnati Chili. Use ground cloves and be careful not to add too much, as they can be overpowering.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a pungent and savory aroma and flavor to the chili. Minced garlic infuses its flavor throughout the chili as it simmers. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for its brighter flavor.
• 1 bay leaf: Bay leaf adds a subtle, herbaceous, and slightly floral aroma to the chili as it simmers. It infuses a background depth of flavor that enhances the overall complexity. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.
• 2 Tablespoons sugar or brown sugar: Sugar or brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spices and acidity in Cincinnati Chili. It rounds out the flavor profile and prevents the chili from being overly savory or acidic. Brown sugar adds a slightly molasses-like note for added depth.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Skyline Chili Copycat

Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for creating this authentic Skyline Chili copycat recipe. The process is relatively straightforward, but the key to achieving the perfect Cincinnati Chili lies in the simmering time and the overnight chilling.

Instructions:

1. Combine Water and Tomato Paste: In a large skillet or Dutch oven (a 6-quart Dutch oven is ideal), whisk together the 4 cups of water and the 6-ounce can of tomato paste over medium-high heat. Whisking ensures the tomato paste dissolves smoothly into the water, creating a uniform base for the chili. Heating the mixture slightly helps the tomato paste to incorporate more easily.
2. Add Ground Beef: Add the 1 1/2 pounds of raw lean ground beef to the water and tomato paste mixture. Use your fingers or a spoon to break apart the ground beef and crumble it into small pieces. This helps the beef cook evenly and prevents large clumps from forming. Ensure the beef is well distributed in the liquid.
3. Incorporate Spices and Seasonings: Add the remaining ingredients to the pot: 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 diced onion, 1/4 cup of chili powder, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of allspice, 1/4 teaspoon of cloves, 3 minced cloves of garlic, 1 bay leaf, and 2 tablespoons of sugar or brown sugar.
4. Stir and Combine: Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are well combined. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the beef and liquid mixture. At this stage, the mixture will be quite liquid and may appear thin; this is normal.
5. Bring to a Boil and Simmer: Bring the chili mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, immediately reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen, and the beef to become tender. Stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
6. Cool and Chill Overnight: After simmering for 2 hours, remove the chili from the stove and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the covered pot to the refrigerator and chill overnight, or for at least 8 hours. This chilling step is crucial for developing the full flavor of Cincinnati Chili. During chilling, the flavors will continue to meld and deepen, and the texture will improve. Chilling also allows the fat to solidify on the surface, making it easier to skim off.
7. Skim Grease and Reheat: The next day, remove the chili from the refrigerator. You will likely see a layer of solidified grease on the top. Skim off as much of this grease as possible using a spoon or ladle. This step is important for reducing the fat content and improving the texture of the chili. Once the grease is skimmed, warm the chili over medium heat until heated through and simmering gently. Avoid boiling rapidly at this stage, as it can toughen the beef.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Your Cincinnati Chili is now ready to serve! Follow the serving suggestions below to enjoy it in true Cincinnati style.

Serving Suggestions: Mastering the Cincinnati Chili Way

Cincinnati Chili isn’t just about the chili itself; it’s also about how you serve it. The “ways” are the defining feature of serving Cincinnati Chili, and understanding them is key to enjoying the authentic experience.

How to Serve:

• 2-Way: Chili served over spaghetti. This is the most basic and classic way to enjoy Cincinnati Chili. A generous ladle of chili is poured over a bed of spaghetti noodles.
• 3-Way: Chili, spaghetti, and grated cheddar cheese. This is perhaps the most popular way to serve Cincinnati Chili. Start with a bed of spaghetti, top with chili, and then generously cover with finely grated cheddar cheese. The cheese melts slightly from the heat of the chili, creating a creamy and flavorful topping.
• 4-Way:
  • 4-Way Onion: Chili, spaghetti, diced onions, and grated cheddar cheese. Diced onions are added between the spaghetti and chili layers or on top of the cheese.
  • 4-Way Bean: Chili, spaghetti, kidney beans, and grated cheddar cheese. Kidney beans are typically added on top of the spaghetti before the chili and cheese.
• 5-Way: Chili, spaghetti, kidney beans, diced onions, and grated cheddar cheese. This is the ultimate Cincinnati Chili experience, incorporating all the classic toppings. Spaghetti is topped with kidney beans, then chili, then diced onions, and finally, a generous mound of grated cheddar cheese.

Additional Serving Tips:

• Oyster Crackers: Serve Cincinnati Chili with a side of oyster crackers. These small, salty crackers are perfect for scooping up chili or adding a bit of crunch.
• Hot Chili Sauce: For those who like extra heat, offer a bottle of hot chili sauce on the side. This allows individuals to customize the spice level of their chili.
• Traditional Greek Salad: A traditional Greek salad is a surprisingly common and refreshing side dish to serve with Cincinnati Chili in Cincinnati chili parlors. The crisp vegetables, feta cheese, and vinaigrette provide a nice contrast to the rich and flavorful chili.
• Serving Bowls: Serve Cincinnati Chili in bowls to accommodate the spaghetti and toppings. Warming the bowls slightly before serving can help keep the chili hot longer.

Unlock the Secrets to Perfect Cincinnati Chili: Expert Tips

To elevate your Cincinnati Chili from good to truly exceptional, consider these expert tips that will help you master this iconic dish.

Additional Tips:

1. Quality of Ground Beef Matters: While lean ground beef is recommended, don’t compromise on quality. Using a good grade of lean ground beef will result in a richer, more flavorful chili. You can also experiment with using a blend of ground beef and ground chuck for a slightly richer flavor.
2. Adjust Spice Levels to Your Preference: Cincinnati Chili is known for its unique spice blend, but you can adjust the spice levels to your personal taste. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. If you like it spicier, add a pinch more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce. Taste the chili after simmering for an hour and adjust spices as needed.
3. Don’t Rush the Simmering Process: The 2-hour simmering time is crucial for developing the complex flavors of Cincinnati Chili. Resist the urge to shorten the simmering time. Low and slow simmering allows the spices to meld, the beef to tenderize, and the flavors to deepen significantly.
4. Skimming the Fat is Essential: Don’t skip the step of skimming the grease from the top of the chili after chilling. This step is important for achieving the desired texture and flavor of Cincinnati Chili. Skimming the fat makes the chili less greasy and allows the other flavors to shine through.
5. Make Ahead and Freeze for Convenience: Cincinnati Chili is a fantastic make-ahead dish. It actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. You can make a large batch of chili and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully. Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cincinnati Chili FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Curious to learn more about Cincinnati Chili? Here are some frequently asked questions to deepen your understanding of this unique dish.

FAQ:

Q1: What makes Cincinnati Chili different from other types of chili?

A: Cincinnati Chili is distinct from other chilis due to its unique spice blend, thin consistency, and serving style. It incorporates Mediterranean spices like cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, which are not typically found in other chili recipes. It is also thinner, more sauce-like, and traditionally served over spaghetti, unlike thicker, bean-heavy chilis served in bowls.

Q2: Can I make Cincinnati Chili vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, you can adapt Cincinnati Chili to be vegetarian or vegan. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives, such as lentils, crumbled tempeh, or commercially available vegan ground beef substitutes. Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly or substitute with soy sauce or tamari for umami flavor. All other spices and ingredients are naturally vegetarian/vegan.

Q3: How long does Cincinnati Chili last in the refrigerator and freezer?

A: Properly stored Cincinnati Chili will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, it freezes very well. Store it in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q4: What is the best cheese to use for Cincinnati Chili?

A: Finely grated cheddar cheese is the traditional and quintessential cheese topping for Cincinnati Chili. Sharp or medium cheddar works best, providing a tangy and flavorful contrast to the spiced chili. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Grate your own cheese fresh for the best results.

Q5: Can I make Cincinnati Chili in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker or Instant Pot. For a slow cooker, brown the ground beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the ground beef, then add the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release of 10-15 minutes. Slow cooker and Instant Pot methods are convenient, but simmering on the stovetop often yields the most authentic texture.

Nutrition Information for Your Cincinnati Chili

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is important. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition information for this Cincinnati Chili recipe.

Nutrition Facts:

• Servings: 6-8
• Calories: Approximately 522kcal per serving (based on 8 servings)

Please Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients used. This information is intended as a general guideline and not a definitive nutritional analysis.

Time to Chili: Preparation and Cooking Timeline

Planning your cooking time is essential for any recipe. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and cooking timeline for this Cincinnati Chili recipe.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (for dicing onion, mincing garlic, and gathering ingredients)
• Cook Time: 2 hours (simmering on the stovetop)
• Additional Time: 8 hours (chilling overnight in the refrigerator)
• Total Time: 10 hours and 10 minutes (including chilling time)

Remember that the overnight chilling time is crucial for flavor development. While the active cooking time is only 2 hours and 10 minutes, plan accordingly to allow for the chilling period. The wait is well worth it for the depth of flavor achieved in authentic Cincinnati Chili.

Cincinnati Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of tradition, a comforting bowl of spiced deliciousness, and a unique culinary experience. This copycat Skyline Chili recipe brings the iconic flavors of the Queen City right to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy this regional favorite no matter where you are. From the distinctive spice blend to the signature “ways” of serving, every element of this recipe is designed to deliver an authentic Cincinnati Chili experience. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to be transported to the heart of Cincinnati with every flavorful bite. Enjoy the taste of home, wherever you may be!

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