Chili Powder
Craft a superior, homemade chili powder in just 5 minutes. This vibrant Tex-Mex blend is smoky, rich, and perfectly spicy, elevating everything from chili con carne to tacos and roasted vegetables. Ditch the store-bought jars and unlock a world of fresh, robust flavor.
For 16 servings
3 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Measure and combine all the spices in a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- b.Carefully measure the sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, Mexican oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- c.Add all measured spices into your chosen container.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Whisk or shake the mixture until it is thoroughly combined and uniform in color.
- b.If using a bowl, use a small whisk or a fork to mix the spices together, breaking up any small clumps.
- c.If using a jar, secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 30-60 seconds until the blend is homogenous.
- d.Visually inspect the powder to ensure there are no streaks of individual spices.
- 3
Your homemade chili powder is ready
- a.Use it immediately or store it for later.
- b.Transfer the chili powder to a clean, dry, airtight container (a small glass jar works best).
- c.Label the container with the name and date.
- d.Store in a cool, dark place like a pantry or spice cabinet.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the freshest flavor, buy whole spices like cumin seeds and oregano leaves. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then cool completely and grind in a spice grinder before mixing.
- 2Store your chili powder in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid away from heat and direct sunlight to preserve its potency for up to 6 months.
- 3This blend is a fantastic all-purpose seasoning. Use it as a dry rub for meats, sprinkle it on popcorn, mix it into scrambled eggs, or add it to roasted potatoes.
- 4Make a double batch! It makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family who love to cook.
Adapt it for your goals.
Smoky Chili Powder
For a deep, smoky flavor, replace 2 tablespoons of the sweet paprika with 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika.
Ancho Chili BaseAncho Chili Base
For a more authentic, milder base, use 1/2 cup of ground ancho chili powder instead of paprika. It provides a rich, fruity flavor with mild heat.
Heat ControlHeat Control
Easily adjust the spiciness. For a mild blend, use only 1 tablespoon of cayenne. For an extra-hot version, increase to 3 tablespoons or add 1 teaspoon of ground chipotle powder for smoky heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Metabolism Boost
The capsaicin found in cayenne pepper is known to slightly increase metabolism and may help the body burn more calories, contributing to weight management.
Rich in Antioxidants
Paprika and oregano are packed with powerful antioxidants, such as Vitamin A and carotenoids, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Many spices in this blend, particularly cumin and black pepper, contain compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory effects, which can contribute to overall health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, absolutely. Homemade chili powder is much fresher, leading to a more vibrant and potent flavor. It's also free of anti-caking agents and preservatives, and you can customize the heat and flavor profile to your exact preference.