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Cincinnati Chili Recipe

User Rating4.2 out of 5 (4 Reviews)  Write a Review

From Chef Paul Sturkey, for About.com

Try this hearty Cincinatti chili five ways like the locals do. It is also wonderful on hot dogs and french fries.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hours, 30 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 Tablespoons oil
  • 2-1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 quart cold water
  • 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
  • 2 large onions, diced
  • 1-1/2 Tablespoons vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Lea & Perrin Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 2 Tablespoons chili powder
  • 5 bay leaves
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
  • 1-1/2 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

In a heavy gauge pot, heat oil, add beef until brown. Add onions and water and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer. Add tomato paste, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, chili powder, bay leaves, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne pepper, and cocoa. Let simmer 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves before serving.

In Cincinnati the true enthusians have their Chili 1 to 5 ways:

1. Plain
2."Two Way" - Spaghetti and Chili
3."Three Way" - Chili, Spaghetti, and Cheddar Cheese
4."Four Way" - Chili, Spaghetti, Cheddar Cheese, and Onions
5."Five Way" - Chili, Spaghetti, Cheddar Cheese, Onions and Kidney Beans

Yield: 6 to 8 servings

Source: Chef Paul Sturkey
Reprinted with permission.

User ReviewsWrite Review
5 out of 5 5 out of 5
cincinnatti chiliOctober 13, 2008By prnugent
"Of all the recipes I see, yours is THE most correct and authentic. Most everyone adds chili powder to ""Skyline Chili"". This original greek recipe prides itself in not having chili powder. It is the lack of this ingredient that makes the flavor so unique. I read an article many years ago from the owner of Skyline and it has always stuck with me about what not to add."

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