Cincinnati chili is a unique American regional dish: a spiced, thin meat sauce (usually beef) served over spaghetti, hot dogs, or as a three-way, four-way, or five-way. Its origins are disputed, but it was popularized by Greek immigrants in the 1920s, and it has a distinct sweet-and-savory flavor with cinnamon, allspice, and chocolate. This guide helps you find authentic Cincinnati chili locations, whether you’re in Ohio or elsewhere, and explains what to order once you get there.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150 g)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp (15 g) chili powder
- 1 tbsp (8 g) ground cumin
- 2 tsp (5 g) ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp (2 g) ground allspice
- 1 tsp (2 g) ground cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 oz (30 g) unsweetened chocolate, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For serving: cooked spaghetti, hot dogs, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, kidney beans, oyster crackers
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat, breaking up the meat, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 8–10 minutes. Drain off excess fat if desired.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, vinegar, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chopped chocolate and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer uncovered for another 15–20 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove the bay leaf. Serve over spaghetti or hot dogs, topped with shredded cheddar, onions, and beans as desired.
Tips
- For a more authentic texture, simmer the chili for at least 2 hours total. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld.
- If you can’t find unsweetened chocolate, substitute 1 tbsp (15 ml) cocoa powder mixed with 1 tsp (5 ml) sugar, but the flavor will be slightly less rich.
- Freeze leftover chili in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Don’t skip the cinnamon and allspice—they are what make Cincinnati chili distinct. If you’re sensitive to cloves, reduce to 1/2 tsp (1 g).
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cincinnati chili over a bed of cooked spaghetti (about 1 cup per serving) for a classic three-way (chili, spaghetti, cheese). For a four-way, add chopped raw onions; for a five-way, add kidney beans. For cheese coneys, spoon chili over hot dogs in buns and top with shredded cheddar and mustard. Serve with oyster crackers on the side.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 2 cups (300 g) cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Simmer for 30 minutes less.
- Spicy: Add 1–2 minced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper with the spices.
- Turkey: Use ground turkey instead of beef; cook to 165°F (74°C) safe minimum internal temperature.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftover chili in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. It will keep for 3–4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until bubbling (165°F / 74°C for leftovers). You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find authentic Cincinnati chili locations? The most famous chains are Skyline Chili and Gold Star Chili, both headquartered in Cincinnati. They have locations throughout Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and Florida. You can also find independent restaurants in the Cincinnati area that serve their own versions.
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes. Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Add the chocolate in the last 30 minutes.
What is the difference between a three-way and a five-way? A three-way is spaghetti, chili, and shredded cheddar cheese. A four-way adds chopped onions, and a five-way adds kidney beans. Some places also offer a “cheese coney� which is a hot dog topped with chili and cheese.
Why does Cincinnati chili have chocolate in it? The chocolate adds depth and a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon and allspice. It’s a small amount, so it doesn’t make the chili taste like dessert.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, but turkey is leaner, so the chili may be less rich. Add a tablespoon of olive oil when browning to compensate. Cook turkey to 165°F (74°C) safe minimum internal temperature.
How long does the chili keep in the fridge? Properly stored in an airtight container, it will last 3–4 days. Reheat to 165°F (74°C) before serving.
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Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
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