🇺🇸 USA · Food
Cincinnati Chili
By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
A unique regional chili from Cincinnati, Ohio, known for its Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce, typically served over spaghetti and topped with various 'ways' like shredded cheddar cheese, onions, or beans. It offers a rich, complex flavor profile unlike traditional chili con carne.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Brown 1 lb ground beef in a large pot, drain fat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 cloves minced garlic; cook until softened.
- 2
Stir in 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce, 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste, 2 cups water, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp allspice, 1/4 tsp clove, 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- 3
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
- 4
While chili simmers, cook 1 lb spaghetti according to package directions.
- 5
Serve Cincinnati Chili over cooked spaghetti. Garnish traditionally with shredded cheddar cheese (3-way), diced onions (4-way), and/or kidney beans (5-way), and oyster crackers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of beef should I use for Cincinnati Chili to get the traditional fine texture?+
Use very lean ground beef (90% or higher) and break it up meticulously while browning. You can even run a portion through a food processor after cooking for the characteristic fine, almost paste-like texture.
Why does Cincinnati Chili often include ingredients like cocoa and sometimes oyster sauce?+
Cocoa powder deepens the chili's color and adds a subtle earthiness, while oyster sauce contributes a savory umami richness. Both are crucial for the dish's unique, complex flavor profile that distinguishes it from other chilis.
How long should Cincinnati Chili simmer to achieve its signature rich flavor?+
For the best depth of flavor, Cincinnati Chili should simmer gently for at least 2-3 hours, or even longer. This extended cooking time allows the diverse spices and ingredients to meld and develop a truly complex taste.
What are the different "ways" (e.g., 3-way, 4-way) to serve Cincinnati Chili, and what do they include?+
"Ways" refer to the standard toppings: 2-way is chili over spaghetti; 3-way adds finely shredded cheddar cheese; 4-way includes chopped raw onions; and 5-way adds kidney beans.
Mundo Match
This dish doesn't have a strong Mundo Match yet — but here's the closest ingredient overlap we found across the world's cuisines.
