Cincinnati Chili
Served with gluten free spaghetti, this is what Esther asked for when she came home on Spring Break. And now that she can have a little cheese it is even better! This is a contest-winning recipe from our local Curves Chili Cook-Off a few years ago.
2 tsp. salt, divided
1 1/2 lbs ground chuck
2 Tbsp. oil
2 medium onions, chopped (about 2 cups)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 Tbsp. chili powder
2 tsp. oregano
2 tsp. baking cocoa
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cayenne
1/2 tsp. ground allspice
1/4 tsp. fresh ground pepper
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
2 Tbsp. cider vinegar
2 tsp. dark brown sugar
2 cups tomato sauce
Bring 2 quarts of water and 1 tsp. salt to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the ground chuck, stirring vigorously to separate the meat into individual strands. As soon as the foam from the meat rises to the top (about 30 seconds) and before the water returns to a boil, drain the meat into a strainer and set aside. Rinse and dry out the saucepan. Set over medium heat and add the oil.
Cook onions in oil, stirring frequently, till they are soft and brown around the edges. Add the garlic and cook another minute or so. Stir in the spices and remaining 1 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the remaining ingredients, scraping the bottom to remove any browned bits. Put meat back in and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer over medium-low for about an hour, stirring occasionally. Chili will become deep red and thicken slightly.
Accompaniments: 1 lb. cooked spaghetti, tossed with 2 Tbsp. butter; 12 oz. sharp cheddar, shredded; 1-2 cans red kidney beans, drained, rinsed, and warmed; 1 medium white onion, chopped (we like the mild flavor of green onions as a topping too).
Put pasta into a big bowl, ladle chili over top, then top with beans, cheese, and onions, as desired. The question in our house is always, do you eat it with a fork or a spoon? Here’s the secret: eat it with a fork, then lick out the bowl so you don’t miss a bit of the savory sauce!
