Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Our family has always had a soft spot for Cincinnati chili. That unique, slightly sweet, savory, and aromatic blend of spices is just pure comfort food. However, embracing a lower-carb lifestyle meant our beloved chili nights, often served over a mountain of spaghetti, needed a serious rethink. I was initially skeptical whether we could capture that iconic flavor and texture without the traditional carb-heavy accompaniments. After several iterations, tweaking spice ratios, and experimenting with serving methods, this Low Carb Cincinnati Chili recipe was born, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer! The aroma filling the kitchen during the long, slow simmer is exactly as I remember, and the taste? Absolutely spot on. Even the carb-lovers in the family devour it, often forgetting it’s a “healthier” version. It’s rich, deeply flavored, and incredibly satisfying, proving you don’t need to sacrifice taste for your dietary goals.

Unveiling the Magic: What is Cincinnati Chili?

Before we dive into our low-carb rendition, it’s worth understanding what makes Cincinnati chili so distinct. Unlike its Texan cousin, which is typically a stew of meat and chili peppers, Cincinnati chili is a finely ground meat sauce with a unique Mediterranean-inspired spice blend. Think cinnamon, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, and often a hint of unsweetened chocolate or cocoa powder for depth. It’s traditionally served in a specific series of “ways”:

• 2-Way: Chili served over spaghetti.
• 3-Way: Chili, spaghetti, and a generous topping of finely shredded cheddar cheese.
• 4-Way: Chili, spaghetti, cheese, and diced onions OR beans.
• 5-Way: Chili, spaghetti, cheese, onions, AND beans.

Our mission is to recreate this iconic dish, keeping all the flavor and offering satisfying low-carb alternatives to the traditional pasta and beans.

Ingredients for Your Low Carb Cincinnati Chili

This recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor while keeping the carb count in check. The key is high-quality ingredients and the right spice blend.

• For the Chili:
  • 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 recommended for flavor)
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped (approx. 2 cups)
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) tomato sauce, no sugar added
  • 1 can (6 oz / 170g) tomato paste, no sugar added
  • 4 cups (32 fl oz / 950ml) beef broth or water (or a mix)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (check for low-sugar versions)
  • 1-2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder OR 1 oz unsweetened baking chocolate, chopped
  • Spice Blend:
    • 3-4 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to your heat preference)
    • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
    • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
    • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
    • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
    • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
    • 1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
    • 1-2 bay leaves
• For Serving (Low Carb “Ways”):
  • Finely shredded cheddar cheese
  • Diced raw white or yellow onions
  • Spaghetti Alternatives:
    • Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
    • Spaghetti squash
    • Shirataki noodles (miracle noodles)
    • Cauliflower rice
    • Hearts of palm noodles
  • Bean Alternative (Optional, use sparingly if strict keto):
    • A small amount of black soy beans (very low in net carbs) or edamame, cooked.
  • Oyster Cracker Alternative:
    • Pork rinds, crushed
    • Cheese crisps (baked Parmesan or cheddar)

Crafting the Perfect Pot: Step-by-Step Instructions

The traditional method for Cincinnati chili often involves simmering the ground beef in water without browning it first to achieve a very fine, almost paste-like texture. We’ll adapt this slightly for ease while still aiming for that signature consistency.

1. Prepare the Base: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, add the ground beef and 2 cups of the beef broth (or water). Use a potato masher or a sturdy spoon to break up the beef into very fine pieces as it comes to a simmer. There should be no large chunks. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, skimming off any foam or excess fat that rises to the surface if desired.
2. Add Aromatics and Liquids: Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the onions begin to soften.
3. Incorporate Tomato and Vinegar: Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, remaining 2 cups of beef broth/water, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly.
4. Introduce the Spices: In a small bowl, whisk together the chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, ground cloves, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add this spice blend to the pot along with the unsweetened cocoa powder (or chopped unsweetened chocolate) and bay leaves. Stir vigorously to ensure everything is well combined and there are no clumps of spices.
5. The Long Simmer (The Secret!): Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot loosely (leaving a small gap for steam to escape), and let it simmer for at least 2-3 hours. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld and deepen, and the texture will become perfect. Stir occasionally, every 30-45 minutes, to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the chili becomes too thick, you can add a little more water or beef broth.
6. Taste and Adjust: After the simmering time, remove the bay leaves. Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more salt, a touch more cinnamon for sweetness, or a bit more cayenne for heat. If the chili is not as thick as you’d like, you can let it simmer uncovered for another 20-30 minutes.
7. Rest (Optional but Recommended): Like many stews and chilis, Cincinnati chili is often even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to marry. If you have the patience, let it cool and refrigerate overnight. Reheat gently before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings.
• Calories per serving (chili only, estimated): Approximately 300-380 calories, depending on the leanness of the beef and exact ingredient brands. This does not include toppings or pasta alternatives.

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used, their brands, and exact serving sizes. For precise tracking, it’s best to calculate based on your actual ingredients.

Preparation and Cook Time

• Preparation Time: 20-25 minutes (chopping vegetables, measuring spices)
• Cook Time: 2.5 – 3.5 hours (including initial simmering of beef and the long simmer)
• Total Time: Approximately 3 – 4 hours (plus optional overnight resting)

While it requires a bit of patience for the simmer, most of this time is hands-off, allowing the magic to happen on the stovetop.

How to Serve Your Low Carb Cincinnati Chili: The “Ways” Reimagined

Embrace the tradition with these low-carb adaptations!

• The “Base” (Instead of Spaghetti):
  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Lightly sauté or microwave until tender-crisp.
  • Spaghetti Squash: Roast or microwave, then scrape out the strands.
  • Shirataki Noodles: Rinse and prepare according to package directions. These are virtually zero-carb.
  • Hearts of Palm Noodles: Rinse and use directly or lightly sauté.
  • Cauliflower Rice: A great option if you prefer a rice-like base.
  • Simply in a Bowl: Enjoy the chili on its own, like a hearty stew!
  • Over a Low-Carb Bun/Bread: For a chili dog or sloppy joe experience.
• Building Your “Way”:
  • Low Carb 2-Way: Your chosen low-carb “base” topped with a generous ladle of Cincinnati chili.
  • Low Carb 3-Way: Start with the Low Carb 2-Way, then add a mountain of finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese. (Don’t skimp on the cheese!)
  • Low Carb 4-Way (Onion): Build a Low Carb 3-Way, then add a layer of finely diced raw white or yellow onions.
  • Low Carb 4-Way (Bean Substitute): Build a Low Carb 3-Way, then add a small portion of cooked black soy beans or edamame. Use sparingly if strictly monitoring carbs.
  • Low Carb 5-Way: Combine it all! Your low-carb base, chili, cheese, diced onions, AND your low-carb bean substitute.
• Garnish Ideas (Beyond the “Ways”):
  • A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt.
  • A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
  • Crushed pork rinds or cheese crisps for a low-carb “oyster cracker” crunch.
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley.

Additional Tips for Chili Perfection

1. Spice Sourcing: Use fresh, good-quality spices. The cinnamon, allspice, and cloves are crucial to the signature flavor profile. If your spices have been sitting in the pantry for years, consider replacing them for the best taste.
2. Don’t Rush the Simmer: The long, slow simmer is essential for developing the deep, complex flavors and achieving the correct texture. This isn’t a quick weeknight meal unless you make it ahead.
3. Make it Ahead & Freeze: Cincinnati chili freezes beautifully! Make a large batch, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will last for 3-4 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
4. Adjust Consistency: If your chili is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to allow some liquid to evaporate. If it’s too thick, stir in a little more beef broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Fine Ground is Key: For the most authentic texture, ensure your ground beef is broken down into very fine particles. Using a potato masher in the initial stage of cooking the beef with liquid helps achieve this. Avoid large, chunky pieces of meat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use a different type of ground meat?
A1: Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, ground turkey or even ground chicken could work. Keep in mind that leaner meats might result in a slightly less rich flavor and may require a bit of added fat (like a tablespoon of olive oil or butter) during the initial cooking stage. Ground venison or bison would also be delicious, more gamey alternatives.

Q2: Is this recipe very spicy? How can I adjust the heat?
A2: As written, this recipe has a mild to medium warmth from the chili powder and a tiny kick if you use cayenne. It’s more aromatic and savory than fiery hot. To increase heat, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes. To make it milder, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the cayenne pepper entirely. Always taste and adjust seasonings towards the end of cooking.

Q3: I don’t have unsweetened cocoa powder or baking chocolate. Can I skip it?
A3: The chocolate or cocoa adds a subtle depth, richness, and a hint of bitterness that balances the spices; it doesn’t make the chili taste like chocolate. While you can omit it, the flavor profile will be slightly different from traditional Cincinnati chili. If you skip it, you might find the chili a bit less complex. Start with a smaller amount if you’re hesitant.

Q4: What’s the best way to get finely shredded cheese?
A4: For that iconic fluffy pile of cheese, it’s best to shred your own from a block of sharp cheddar. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting as nicely and don’t give the same texture. Use the finest shredding side of your box grater or a food processor with a fine shredding disc.

Q5: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A5: Yes, you can adapt this for a slow cooker! Brown (or simmer and break up) the beef with the onions and garlic on the stovetop first, as described in steps 1 and 2. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, stir well, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You might need to leave the lid slightly ajar or remove it for the last 30-60 minutes if you want to thicken the chili further.

This Low Carb Cincinnati Chili is a testament to the fact that dietary changes don’t mean saying goodbye to your favorite comfort foods. With a few smart swaps and attention to the core flavors that make this dish iconic, you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying, and utterly delicious meal that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle. Enjoy the process, and get ready to impress yourself and anyone you share it with!

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