4-Way
Spaghetti topped with Skyline's famous chili, a mound of shredded cheddar cheese, and onions or beans.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Cincinnati chili, the base of the 4-Way, is a unique regional dish developed by Macedonian immigrant brothers, Athanas and John Kiradjieff, in 1922. Seeking to create a universally appealing dish, they experimented with Mediterranean spices in a meat sauce served over spaghetti. Their original recipe drew inspiration from Greek stew (like stifado) and incorporated Middle Eastern spices, adapting it to American tastes and availability of ingredients.
4-Way Spaghetti and Cincinnati chili in general are deeply ingrained in Cincinnati's culinary identity, representing more than just a meal; it's a cultural touchstone and a source of regional pride.
Cincinnati Staple
Cincinnati chili is a quintessential Cincinnati food, and Skyline Chili is the most iconic restaurant serving it. It's a 'must-try' for anyone visiting the city.
Regional Identity
The dish is often seen as a symbol of Cincinnati's unique cultural blend, reflecting its immigrant heritage and its distinctive culinary traditions.
Family Tradition
Many Cincinnati families have their own variations on the chili recipe and have been eating this dish for generations, making it a cherished family tradition.
Ways of Ordering
The "way" system (2-Way, 3-Way, 4-Way, 5-Way) is specific to Cincinnati chili and demonstrates a standardized, almost ritualistic, way of ordering the dish.
The 4-Way offers a complex interplay of flavors: savory, slightly sweet, and subtly spiced, all balanced by the creamy cheddar cheese.
The chili itself is characterized by a blend of ground beef, tomatoes, and a distinctive spice blend including cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and sometimes chocolate or cocoa powder, creating a warm, aromatic, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The spaghetti provides a neutral base, while the cheddar cheese adds richness and a sharp, tangy counterpoint. Onions contribute a pungent bite, and beans offer a creamy, earthy element. The absence of traditional chili spices like cumin and chili powder differentiates it from Southwestern-style chili.
Cheddar Cheese Quantity
Skyline Chili uses finely shredded cheddar cheese in very generous quantities. Don't be shy about asking for extra!
Oyster Crackers
Cincinnati chili is traditionally served with oyster crackers. Crumble them on top for added texture.
Hot Sauce
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce. Tabasco is a popular choice.
Proper Eating Technique
Instead of twirling the spaghetti, many locals recommend cutting it with a fork and mixing it with the chili, cheese, and toppings in each bite.
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