There’s more to chili powder than just crushed ground chilis. Let’s learn about this popular spice and what to do when you don’t have it on hand.
Chili powder is a staple spice in many kitchens and packs a lot of flavor. It’s famously added to rubs, soups, stews, chili (of course), and various Latin dishes. For example, you can use it to make enchilada sauce. It’s a versatile spice that works well with meat, whether grilling chicken or slow-cooking pork shoulder. It’s even great in pasta sauces.
But here’s a little secret: It often contains spices that have nothing to do with chilis. In addition to crushed and ground-up peppers, chili powder can contain spices like cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt, coriander, and cayenne pepper, depending on the individual blend.
What pepper is used to make chili powder?
The type of pepper used can vary, but the ingredients listed on the label may provide some clarity (or try a Google search into the brand your buying). To name a few, ancho chili peppers, cayenne chili peppers, and chipotle chili peppers can be used in chili powder.
Chili powder versus cayenne pepper (or cayenne powder)
These two spices are often used together but are not the same. Cayenne pepper is made only from cayenne peppers, whereas chili powder is a blend of spices, and the type of chili can vary. Cayenne pepper is considered spicier than most chili powders. So, if you like spicy foods, you’ll like chili powders that use cayenne pepper as the base pepper.
Can you make chili powder?
Many homemade recipes include paprika (what is paprika), cayenne pepper, and the spices mentioned above, like cumin and oregano. You can experiment based on your taste preferences. It’s OK to get creative.
What is a substitute for chili powder?
If you don’t have the spices to make your own blend, you can substitute in other spicey stand-alone powders like paprika, cayenne pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. If liquid won’t ruin the recipe, try hot sauce.
Joanne Mellquist says
When a recipe calls for chili powder, which brand do you use as you say each is a different combo of spices?
Jessica Gavin says
Hi Joanne! I typically use McCormick chili powder.
Katherine says
I need to know how to use guajillo powder chili