The topic of a proper chili should be added to the list of taboo dinner-talk topics alongside religion and politics: We are a nation divided over a simple bowl of meaty goodness.
Some regions are serious about chili. Texas has taken the no-fuss approach. The ingredients in a Texas chili are simple: Meat, chilies, and a bit of time. Leave the beans and tomatoes at the store; they don’t belong here.
Cincinnati, on the other hand, has created such a complicated concoction that you need to learn another language just to order. Get a two-way (over spaghetti), three-way (with cheddar cheese), four-way (with onions), or five-way (with beans). The city might be on to something though; they have the most “chili parlors” of any city in the country and consume over two million pounds of chili each year (you hear that Texas?). But before you hightail it to Cincinnati, be aware that they add cinnamon, cloves, allspice, or chocolate to the ingredients list. Say what?
So tell us: Which side are you on? Try out our Texas red chili or turkey and white bean chili (any way you like it) and let us know!
From: Sasha | 1/31/13 at 8:08 pm
So where is the recipe for Cincinnati-style chili?
From: DebWS | 1/31/13 at 8:35 pm
Skyline Cincinnati-style chili over Texas any time.
From: Debbie | 1/31/13 at 9:54 pm
As a life-long Cincinnatian, I was weaned on Cincinnati chili--it is the best!
From: Hal | 1/31/13 at 11:37 pm
Totally not an either/or question. The styles are so completely different that you can like them both (or not at all). Personally, I love Cincinnati-style chili, but I find it's a polarizing thing. Most people either love it or hate it. I don't think it's the same with a more "traditional" chili.
From: John | 2/1/13 at 9:56 am
Another debate is over the solids to broth ratio. I prefer chili with more broth than the example shown in your photo.
From: Jacquie | 2/1/13 at 10:24 am
Definitely Cincinnati! The ULTIMATE BEST!
From: Hawaiian Sunshine | 2/1/13 at 12:08 pm
Let it be known that Heather's Chili is the absolute best!!! Love the cheddar cheese as a finishing touch.
From: Becky | 2/1/13 at 3:42 pm
Definitely Skyline Chili.