Cincinnati chili. The name itself conjures images – perhaps of steaming bowls, shredded cheddar, and a unique spice blend that dances on the palate. But what exactly is Cincinnati chili, and what makes it so drastically different from the chili found in other parts of the United States? It’s a question with a surprisingly complex and fascinating answer, one that delves into immigration, innovation, and a regional culinary identity fiercely defended and passionately loved.
A Unique History: The Macedonian Connection
The story of Cincinnati chili begins not in the American West, the traditional home of chili con carne, but in 1922, with two Macedonian immigrant brothers, John and Tom Kiradjieff. They arrived in Cincinnati and, like many immigrants, sought a way to make a living in their new country. They initially opened a Greek restaurant, but soon realized they needed a dish that would appeal to a broader audience.
Drawing inspiration from stews and sauces from their homeland, the Kiradjieff brothers experimented with different spices and combinations. They weren’t trying to create “chili” as Americans knew it; they were looking for a unique, flavorful sauce to serve over spaghetti. This innovative approach laid the foundation for what would become Cincinnati chili. They named their restaurant, Empress Chili, and it became the first establishment to serve this distinctive dish.
The Five-Way: Decoding the Cincinnati Chili Lingo
One of the most immediately recognizable aspects of Cincinnati chili is the way it’s served: in “ways.” Understanding these ways is crucial to understanding the Cincinnati chili experience. The most common is the Five-Way, but it all starts with the Two-Way.
The Building Blocks: From Two-Way to Five-Way
The Two-Way is simply spaghetti topped with Cincinnati chili. This is the foundation upon which all other “ways” are built. It’s the purest expression of the chili’s flavor and allows you to appreciate the unique blend of spices without any distractions.
The Three-Way adds shredded cheddar cheese to the Two-Way. This seemingly simple addition provides a creamy, sharp counterpoint to the savory chili and the pasta. The cheese is almost always finely shredded cheddar, contributing to the overall texture of the dish.
The Four-Way introduces diced onions or beans (typically kidney beans) to the Three-Way. You choose either onions or beans. The onions provide a sharp, pungent bite, while the beans add a soft, earthy element.
Finally, the Five-Way, the quintessential Cincinnati chili experience, includes both beans and onions on top of the Three-Way. It’s the complete package, a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that represents the full potential of this unique dish.
Beyond the Five-Way: Variations and Additions
While the Five-Way is the most popular, there are other variations and additions worth exploring. Some restaurants offer a Six-Way, which typically adds garlic to the Five-Way. You might also find options to add jalapeños or hot sauce for those who prefer a spicier experience. Vegetarian options are also becoming increasingly common, with meatless chili bases available.
The Secret is in the Spices: Unpacking the Flavor Profile
The true magic of Cincinnati chili lies in its spice blend. It’s what sets it apart from other chili variations and gives it its distinctive flavor. The specific recipes are closely guarded secrets, but some of the commonly used spices include:
- Cinnamon: This is perhaps the most surprising ingredient, and it contributes to the chili’s subtle sweetness and warmth.
- Allspice: Adds a complex, slightly peppery note.
- Cloves: Another warm spice that contributes to the overall depth of flavor.
- Cocoa Powder or Unsweetened Chocolate: This might seem unusual, but it adds richness and complexity to the chili, without making it taste overtly chocolatey.
- Cumin: A standard chili spice that provides an earthy, savory flavor.
- Chili Powder: Adds heat and enhances the overall chili flavor.
The combination of these spices creates a flavor profile that is both savory and slightly sweet, warm and comforting. It’s a flavor that lingers on the palate and keeps you coming back for more. The broth is notably thin, more like a sauce than a stew, adding to the dish’s unique character.
Cheese, Onions, and Crackers: The Perfect Accompaniments
Cincinnati chili is rarely served without its traditional accompaniments. These elements play an integral role in the overall dining experience.
The Cheese: Finely Shredded Cheddar
The cheese used in Cincinnati chili is almost exclusively finely shredded cheddar. The fine shred is important because it allows the cheese to melt quickly and evenly over the hot chili, creating a creamy, cheesy layer that complements the other flavors. The sharpness of the cheddar provides a welcome contrast to the chili’s sweetness.
The Onions: Diced and Pungent
The onions used in Cincinnati chili are typically diced and raw. They provide a sharp, pungent bite that cuts through the richness of the chili and cheese. The contrast in texture and flavor adds another layer of complexity to the dish.
The Crackers: Oyster or Saltines
Oyster crackers or saltines are almost always served alongside Cincinnati chili. They provide a salty, crunchy counterpoint to the soft texture of the spaghetti, chili, cheese, and beans. They’re perfect for scooping up the chili or adding a bit of crunch to each bite. Some people crumble the crackers on top of the chili, while others prefer to eat them on the side.
Beyond the Chains: Exploring Independent Cincinnati Chili Parlors
While chains like Skyline Chili and Gold Star Chili are the most well-known purveyors of Cincinnati chili, numerous independent chili parlors offer their own unique takes on the dish. These establishments often have their own secret spice blends and serving styles, making them worth exploring for the true Cincinnati chili aficionado.
These independent parlors often have a more local, neighborhood feel, and they are often deeply rooted in the history of the city. Visiting these establishments is a great way to experience the authentic Cincinnati chili culture and support local businesses.
Why Cincinnati Chili is So Divisive: A Love-It-or-Hate-It Food
Cincinnati chili is a dish that tends to elicit strong opinions. People either love it or hate it, and there’s often little middle ground. There are several reasons why this dish can be so divisive.
Firstly, the sweetness of the spice blend can be off-putting to those who are expecting a more traditional, savory chili. The presence of cinnamon, allspice, and cloves can be surprising and even unsettling to some palates.
Secondly, the texture of the chili can be another point of contention. The thin, sauce-like consistency is very different from the thick, chunky chili that many people are used to. Some find the texture watery or unappetizing.
Finally, the fact that it’s served over spaghetti can be a turnoff to those who view chili as a standalone dish or a topping for something like cornbread. The combination of chili and spaghetti can seem strange or even sacrilegious to some.
However, for those who love Cincinnati chili, these very qualities are what make it so unique and appealing. They appreciate the complexity of the spice blend, the thinness of the sauce, and the unexpected combination of flavors and textures.
Cincinnati Chili: A Culinary Icon
Despite its divisive nature, Cincinnati chili remains a culinary icon, deeply embedded in the culture and identity of the city. It’s a dish that is celebrated at festivals, debated in online forums, and fiercely defended by its loyal fans.
It’s more than just a bowl of food; it’s a symbol of Cincinnati’s unique culinary heritage, a testament to the ingenuity of its immigrant communities, and a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected combinations can create the most delicious and memorable experiences. Whether you love it or hate it, Cincinnati chili is undeniably a dish that deserves to be recognized and appreciated for its originality and its cultural significance.
What makes Cincinnati chili unique compared to other chili styles?
Cincinnati chili distinguishes itself primarily through its distinctive spice blend, which often includes cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and sometimes even chocolate. This sweet and savory combination creates a flavor profile unlike traditional Texas-style or Southwestern chili, which typically emphasize chili peppers and bolder, spicier notes.
Beyond the spice blend, Cincinnati chili’s preparation and serving styles are also unique. It’s typically served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, and kidney beans, in various numbered “ways” that dictate which toppings are included. This unconventional presentation sets it apart from other chili varieties eaten on their own or served in a bowl.
What are the different “ways” to order Cincinnati chili, and what do they mean?
The “ways” refer to the number of ingredients layered on top of the spaghetti and chili. A “Two-Way” is chili and spaghetti only. It’s the simplest form and the foundation for all other variations.
A “Three-Way” adds shredded cheddar cheese. A “Four-Way” adds either diced onions or kidney beans (you specify which). The most popular is the “Five-Way,” which includes spaghetti, chili, cheese, onions, and kidney beans. Understanding these numbered ways is key to ordering correctly at a Cincinnati chili parlor.
Is there actual chocolate in Cincinnati chili, and if so, why?
While not always explicitly stated, many Cincinnati chili recipes include a small amount of unsweetened chocolate or cocoa powder. This ingredient is not meant to impart a distinct chocolate flavor. Instead, it adds depth and complexity to the overall spice blend, balancing the other savory and aromatic spices.
The chocolate helps to round out the flavor profile, contributing to a richer, more nuanced taste that is not immediately identifiable as chocolate. It’s more of a subtle undertone that enhances the other spices and adds to the chili’s unique character, rather than a prominent flavor component.
What are some popular Cincinnati chili restaurants, and what are they known for?
Two of the most iconic Cincinnati chili restaurants are Skyline Chili and Gold Star Chili. Skyline Chili is known for its thin, slightly sweeter chili and its oyster crackers served with every order. They have a wide reach across the Cincinnati area and beyond.
Gold Star Chili differentiates itself with a slightly thicker, heartier chili that is often described as having a more robust flavor. While also prevalent in the Cincinnati area, Gold Star prides itself on a more family-oriented atmosphere and its emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
Can I make Cincinnati chili at home, and what are some key ingredients to use?
Absolutely! Cincinnati chili is relatively straightforward to make at home. The key to replicating the authentic flavor lies in the spice blend. Essential ingredients include ground beef, diced onions, tomato paste, beef broth, and a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, allspice, chili powder, cumin, and a touch of unsweetened cocoa powder or chocolate.
Recipes vary, but it’s crucial to simmer the chili for a significant amount of time – at least two to three hours – to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. Serving it over spaghetti with the appropriate toppings – shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and kidney beans – is essential for the complete Cincinnati chili experience.
What are some variations on Cincinnati chili recipes that people might try?
Some people experiment with different types of meat, such as ground lamb or a mixture of beef and pork, to alter the texture and flavor. Others adjust the spice blend to suit their preferences, increasing the chili powder for more heat or adding a bit of brown sugar for extra sweetness.
Another common variation is the addition of different toppings. While the classic toppings are cheese, onions, and kidney beans, some people add sour cream, hot sauce, or even jalapenos for an extra kick. Vegan versions often substitute textured vegetable protein for ground beef and use vegan cheese.
Why is Cincinnati chili so beloved by the people of Cincinnati?
Cincinnati chili is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural icon deeply ingrained in the city’s identity. It evokes a sense of nostalgia and is often associated with childhood memories and family traditions. The unique flavor and serving style create a distinct culinary experience that is inherently tied to Cincinnati.
The chili’s affordability and accessibility have also contributed to its widespread popularity. It’s a dish that transcends social and economic boundaries, bringing people together over a shared love for this distinctive regional cuisine. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its unique flavor and its cultural significance within the community.