Chili is a dish that warms the soul, and a good seasoning mix is its heart. This homemade chili seasoning blend is simple yet powerful, transforming any pot of chili into a masterpiece of flavor. With just a few common spices, you can create a mix that’s perfect for any chili recipe, whether you like it mild or spicy. Once you try this, you’ll never go back to store-bought packets again.
Steps
- Gather all the spices you need: 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and about 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper.
- Mix these spices together in a bowl until they are well combined. This blend will replace one store-bought chili seasoning packet and is suitable for a six-serving chili batch.
- Transfer the mixed seasoning into an airtight container to keep it fresh. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and moisture for up to six months.
- To use the seasoning, start by browning ground beef or turkey in a pan. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the homemade chili seasoning to the meat and sauté for an additional minute to enhance the flavors by toasting the spices.
- Proceed with your chili recipe by adding other ingredients such as diced tomatoes and beans as desired. Enjoy your warm, homemade chili!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 18.1kcal | Carbohydrates: 2.9g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 2841.5mg | Fiber: 0.4g
FAQ
- Can I use homemade chili seasoning for recipes other than chili?
- Yes, this homemade chili seasoning can enhance a variety of dishes beyond traditional chili. Try using it on roasted vegetables, meats, or fish, or add a sprinkle to mac and cheese for an extra kick.
- How should I store homemade chili seasoning?
- To maintain freshness, store your chili seasoning in an airtight container, keeping it away from heat and moisture. It can last for up to six months when stored properly.
- What can I do if my chili powder is already spicy?
- If your chili powder has a strong heat level, you might want to reduce or omit the cayenne pepper from the recipe to avoid making the seasoning too spicy.
- What are some interesting variations I can add to my chili seasoning?
- Consider adding unique ingredients like cocoa powder, dark chocolate, or even a splash of beer for depth. Brown sugar or molasses can add sweetness, while cinnamon or a bit of red wine can offer a complex flavor profile.
- How do I use the seasoning when making chili?
- Brown your ground beef or turkey first, drain any excess fat, and then add the homemade chili seasoning. Sauté the mixture for an additional minute to toast the spices before continuing with your chili recipe.
Tips
- Toast the spices: After browning your meat, add the homemade chili seasoning and sauté for an additional minute. This step enhances the flavor by toasting the spices, making them more aromatic and pronounced.
- Adjust spiciness: If you find your chili powder to be particularly spicy, consider reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.
- Experiment with variations: Enhance your chili by adding unique ingredients like cocoa powder, beer, or cinnamon to introduce new layers of flavor.
- Store properly: Keep your homemade seasoning mix in an airtight container, away from heat and moisture, to maintain its freshness for up to six months.
Equipment
- Airtight Container – For storing the homemade chili seasoning mix to keep it fresh and away from moisture.
