Homemade Chili Seasoning Recipe

I’m so excited to whip up this killer homemade chili seasoning since mixing these spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder and the rest just spark a flavor explosion that makes every meal feel like a little adventure even if its just dinner.

I love making my homemade chili seasoning. I mix chili powder with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt and a hint of cayenne pepper.

I think its nutritional value is balanced and adds a robust flavor to dishes. This spice mix is my go to.

Ingredients

• Chili powder brings a smoky vibrant heat and is loaded with antioxidants.
• Ground cumin offers earthy nutty flavor and supports digestion while adding warm depth.
• Paprika imparts a mild sweetness and stunning red color while providing vitamin A.
• Garlic powder boosts savory notes, offers heart healthy compounds and a subtle pungency.
• Onion powder delivers a rich depth with natural anti inflammatory benefits and balancing flavor.
• Dried oregano adds a peppery herby note, known for antioxidants and digestive care.
• Salt enhances overall taste drawing and merging flavors, though use sparingly for health.
• Cayenne pepper introduces a fiery kick and is packed with capsaicin that boosts metabolism.

Ingredient Quantities

• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

How to Make this

1. Gather all your ingredients so that you dont have to run around looking for them mid-recipe.

2. In a medium bowl, measure out 3 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, and 1 tablespoon of paprika.

3. Next add 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder and 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder into the bowl.

4. Then mix in 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and finally 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.

5. Stir all the spices together with a whisk or fork until evenly mixed, making sure there are no clumps.

6. If you want extra flavor, briefly toast the spice mix in a dry pan over low heat for one or two minutes but keep an eye on it so it doesnt burn.

7. Let the mixture cool completely if you toasted it.

8. Transfer the homemade chili seasoning into an airtight container or spice jar and label it with the date. Enjoy using it in your chili or any recipe that needs a little kick!

Equipment Needed

1. Medium mixing bowl
2. Measuring spoons
3. Whisk or fork
4. Dry pan or skillet
5. Airtight container or spice jar

FAQ

• Q: How long does this chili seasoning last?
  A: If you store it in an airtight container kept in a cool, dry place, it can last for about 6 months. Just make sure to check it from time to time if it smells off.
• Q: Can I adjust the heat level?
  A: Yup, you can totally tweak the cayenne pepper up or down based on your spice tolerance. If its too hot, you can even reduce it a bit.
• Q: Other than chili, what else can I use this seasoning for?
  A: You can use it for tons of recipes, like steaks, tacos, or veggie dishes. Its really a versatile blend for any meal that needs a little kick.
• Q: Can I use fresh garlic and onion instead of powders?
  A: You can try using fresh ones but it might alter the texture and the way the flavors blend. The powdered form really mixes in smooth easily.
• Q: Is this seasoning gluten-free?
  A: Yes, it is naturally gluten free, as long as the spices you buy dont have any added fillers. Always double-check the labels tho.
• Q: What is the best way to mix these spices?
  A: The easiest is to combine everything in a bowl with a spoon and give it a good stir. Some people like to shake them in a jar to ensure an even mix.

Homemade Chili Seasoning Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• For chili powder, you could mix smoked paprika with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you want that extra kick.
• If you don’t have garlic powder, try using a clove of minced garlic – just be careful cause its flavor is pretty bold.
• For onion powder, dried minced onion can work in a pinch, though it may not blend as evenly.
• You can swap regular paprika with smoked paprika to bring a deeper flavor to your blend.
• Should you run out of ground cumin, a small pinch of caraway seeds might do the trick, even if it tastes a bit different.

Pro Tips

1. Always get your spices measured out before you start mixin everything together. This helps cuz you won’t end up runnin around lookin for something mid-recipe, and it makes the whole thing easier to handle.
2. Try to toast your spices in a dry pan over low heat for a minute or two. It really brings out the flavors but be careful not to burn them cuz burnt spices can taste kinda bitter.
3. When you finish mixing and toasting (if you choose to do that), let the spice mix cool completely before you put it in an airtight container. This little step helps keep the spices fresh for a longer time.
4. Lastly, don’t forget to label your container with the date. This can seem basic but its a handy trick to know when its time to replace your homemade seasoning.