Imagine a cold winter evening, the kind that practically demands a cozy blanket and a warm bowl of something comforting. That’s when I think of chili. But not just any chili—I’m talking about a homemade concoction that dances between spicy and savory.
This chili seasoning mix, which I stumbled upon during a late-night cooking frenzy, is the secret ingredient that transforms a simple dish into a family favorite. It’s like discovering a new season of your favorite show on Netflix—unexpected yet absolutely delightful.
Steps
- Gather the following 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, and approximately 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper.
- Combine all the spices in a bowl, ensuring they are mixed thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixed seasoning into an airtight container and store it away from heat and moisture; it will keep well for up to six months.
- To use the seasoning in chili, first brown one pound of ground beef or turkey, then drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the homemade chili seasoning to the browned meat and sauté for about a minute to enhance the flavors by toasting the spices.
- Continue preparing your chili by adding ingredients like diced tomatoes and beans, or customize with your preferred additions.
- Experiment with adding unique ingredients such as cocoa powder, beer, brown sugar, cinnamon, red wine, or coffee for additional depth of flavor.
- Use the seasoning for other dishes as well, such as sprinkling it on vegetables, meat, or fish before roasting or grilling.
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
- What ingredients do I need to make homemade chili seasoning?
- You will need chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Simply mix these ingredients together for a perfect blend.
- How long can I store homemade chili seasoning?
- Store your homemade chili seasoning in an airtight container, keeping it away from heat and moisture. It can be kept for up to six months.
- Can I adjust the spiciness of the chili seasoning?
- Yes, if the chili powder you are using is already spicy, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper to adjust the heat level to your preference.
- What are some variations or additions I can try with my chili seasoning?
- You can experiment with adding cocoa powder, dark chocolate, beer, brown sugar, cinnamon, red wine, or coffee to your chili for unique flavors and depth.
- How can I use chili seasoning beyond making chili?
- Besides chili, you can use this seasoning on vegetables, meats, or fish before roasting or grilling. It also works well in dishes like mac and cheese for an extra kick.
Tips
- Adjust Spice Levels: If your chili powder is already spicy, consider reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper to tailor the heat to your preference.
- Enhance Flavor with Toasting: After browning your meat and draining excess fat, sauté the homemade chili seasoning with the meat for an additional minute. This will toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
- Storage Tips: Keep your homemade chili seasoning in an airtight container, stored away from heat and moisture, to maintain its freshness and potency for up to six months.
- Experiment with Additions: For a unique twist, try adding ingredients like cocoa powder, beer, or coffee to your chili. These can introduce a rich, earthy flavor that complements the spices in your seasoning blend.
Equipment
- Airtight Spice Storage Containers – For storing the homemade chili seasoning mix.
- Spice Grinder – If you prefer to freshly grind any spices, like cumin seeds or peppercorns.
- Measuring Spoons – For accurately measuring out the spices.
- Mixing Bowl – A small bowl for combining the spices.
