Famous Cincinnati Chili with Skyline-Style Flavors

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cups water
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1/4 cup chili powder
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or brown sugar
• Grated cheddar cheese
• Chopped onions (optional)
• Kidney beans (optional)
• Oyster crackers (optional)
• Hot chili sauce (optional)
• Spaghetti noodles, cooked, for serving (optional)
• Traditional Greek salad, as a side (optional)