Three Way Chili (Cincinnati Style)

Get ready for a flavor rollercoaster as we dive into the quirky world of Cincinnati Chili! Hailing from the Queen City, this Three-Way Cincinnati Chili will take your taste buds on a wild ride you won’t soon forget.

Now, let me spill the beans—I’m not a true Cincinnatian. Born and raised in Dayton, I found myself in this “Nasty Nati” after graduating from the University of Cincinnati. And boy, I had to adjust to the local quirks—pig statues, Bengals disappointments, and the infamous Cincinnati Chili, most known to be sold at Skylini, Goldstar Chili, or other local chili parlors.

But there’s one thing I just can’t get behind—Cheese Coney’s. Sorry, Cincinnati, hot dogs and this Cincinnati spicy stew aren’t my jam. Blame a bad childhood experience. Now that I’ve got that off my chest let’s talk about why you should trust me and this recipe.

Cincinnati Chili Culture Shock

Picture this: chili on spaghetti noodles. Yes, you heard that right! As a chili, or spicy stew in some places, lover, I was skeptical. Cinnamon, allspice, and CHOCOLATE in the mix? Madness! It took me years to give it a shot, starting with chili cheese fries. Not bad. Then, I went all-in with a 3-Way Cincinnati dish, and surprise, surprise—I loved it! The layers of textures, the explosion of flavors, and, let’s not forget, the cheese. Oh, the cheese makes this dish shine!

Homemade Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Making Cincinnati at home is like creating a symphony of flavors.

Ingredients:

Lean ground beef
Onions
Chili powder
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Allspice
Cloves
Beef broth
Tomato sauce
Worcestershire sauce
Cocoa powder
Brown sugar

Start by browning lean ground beef—cue the savory aroma! Add chopped onions and let the magic happen. Now, for the secret spice mix: chili powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. Trust me; this blend will blow your mind.

Cooking Process

Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of cocoa powder. Yes, cocoa powder! The brown sugar adds the perfect sweet note, balancing the spices. Let it simmer, and your home will smell like a spicy and delectable paradise.

Serving and Toppings

Serve it over spaghetti, pile on the shredded cheddar, and let your creativity flow with toppings. Sour cream, diced onions, hot sauce—go wild! Your homemade Cincinnati is ready to impress. It’s thick or thin, spicy or mild—customize it to your liking.

Enjoy the Experience

Gather your crew, serve up your masterpiece, and watch as their eyes widen in amazement. Your homemade Cincinnati is not just a meal; it’s an experience. So, buckle up and savor the twist that sets Cincinnati apart. Get ready for a tasty revelation that will leave you craving more!

Commonly Asked Questions

What makes Cincinnati different from traditional chili?

Cincinnati is unique for its thin, spiced meat sauce, served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheddar. The spice mix includes unexpected ingredients like cinnamon and cocoa.

Difference between a 3-Way, 4-Way, and 5-Way Cincinnati?

The numbers refer to additional toppings. A 3-Way includes spaghetti, chili, and cheese. A 4-Way adds onions or beans, and a 5-Way includes both onions and red kidney beans.

What is the history of this Cincinnati spicy stew?

Cincinnati traces its roots to Greek immigrant brothers in the early 20th century. Empress, established in 1922, claims to be the first to serve Cincinnati-style.

Can I customize my toppings?

Absolutely! Cincinnati is known for its versatility. Get creative with toppings like sour cream, diced onions, hot sauce, or kidney beans to suit your taste.

How should I store leftover Cincinnati spicy stew?

Allow it to cool before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer shelf life. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding water or broth for consistency.

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