Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history—Cincinnati Five-Way Chili! This iconic American recipe isn’t just your average chili; it’s a delightful fusion of spices, savory beef, and a unique twist that includes spaghetti, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a chili aficionado or a curious newcomer, this recipe will have you craving a bowlful of this hearty goodness. Dive in and discover the secrets to creating a chili experience that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spaghetti, cooked (for serving)
- Shredded cheese (for serving)
- Chopped onions (for serving)
- Hot sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients to ensure you have everything ready for the cooking process. This includes 2 lbs of ground beef, 1 large chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 can of tomato sauce, 1 can of drained and rinsed kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, cooked spaghetti, shredded cheese, chopped onions, and hot sauce.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Once the beef is browned, reduce the heat back to medium. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook the spices with the meat for about 2 minutes to enhance their flavors.
- Pour in the can of tomato sauce and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans to the pot, stirring them in well. Bring the chili back to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for about
- 5 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After
- 5 hours, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper if desired. If the chili is too thick, you can add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- While the chili is finishing, prepare the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- To serve, place a portion of cooked spaghetti in a bowl. Ladle the Cincinnati Five-Way Chili over the spaghetti.
- Top the chili with shredded cheese, chopped onions, and a splash of hot sauce to taste. Enjoy your hearty Cincinnati Five-Way Chili!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions and mince your garlic before you start cooking. This will streamline the process and make it easier to focus on developing those delicious flavors.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing of your onions and garlic. Allow them to become translucent and fragrant to build a solid flavor base for your chili.
- Quality Meat: Use high-quality ground beef for the best taste. If you prefer a leaner option, consider using ground turkey or chicken.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference. Start with a little and add more if you like it spicier!
- Simmer Slowly: The longer you let your chili simmer, the better the flavors will meld together. If you can, let it cook for a bit longer than the recommended time for an even richer taste.
- Serve with Style: For the authentic Cincinnati experience, layer your spaghetti and chili, then top generously with shredded cheese and chopped onions. A dash of hot sauce adds the perfect finishing touch!
- Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in the fridge and enjoy them for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
