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Home > Recipes > Vegan Kitchen Basics

Homemade Chili Powder Recipe (2 Minutes)

Published: Jan 6, 2021 ยท Modified: Sep 29, 2023 by Iosune Robles ยท This post may contain affiliate links

5 from 3 votes
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Teaspoon filled with homemade chili powder.
Small container holding homemade chili powder.

Discover the perfect Homemade Chili Powder Recipe! Ready in just 2 minutes, this blend of 6 simple ingredients makes it incredibly easy to add a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.

Small homemade chili powder jar.

Whether you're making spicy chili, marinating protein, or seasoning a pot of soup, this homemade chili powder is your culinary sidekick, adding a dash of awesomeness to every bite.

Say goodbye to store-bought blends and embrace the delightful aroma of your homemade creation. Adjust the spice level to your liking. Elevate your dishes with this homemade chili powder!

Looking for more seasoning recipes? Don't miss my Homemade Old Bay Seasoning, Homemade Cajun Seasoning, and Homemade Poultry Seasoning. They're sure to spice up your cooking!

Jump to:
  • ๐ŸŒŸ Why you'll love this recipe
  • ๐Ÿงพ Ingredient notes
  • ๐Ÿ“‹ Variations
  • ๐Ÿ”ช Instructions
  • ๐Ÿ’ญ Expert tips
  • โ“Recipe FAQs
  • ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ More spice blend recipes
  • Homemade Chili Powder Recipe (2 Minutes)

🌟 Why you'll love this recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: In just 2 minutes, you can whip up this homemade spice blend, making it a convenient and time-saving addition to your kitchen repertoire.
  2. Cost-Effective: Making your spice blend at home is more budget-friendly than buying pre-packaged versions, and you can create larger quantities to have on hand.
  3. No Hidden Ingredients: Crafting your own spice blend ensures no hidden additives, preservatives, or chemicals.
  4. Customizable Spice Level: You have complete control over the spiciness. Adjust the blend to your liking, from mild to fiery, to suit your taste buds and dish requirements.
  5. Perfect Gift: It is a thoughtful and unique present when packaged in a decorative jar.

🧾 Ingredient notes

Ingredients needed to make chili powder.

Sweet paprika: I prefer to use regular or sweet paprika, as I find that smoked paprika has a robust flavor, and hot paprika can make the mix too spicy for my taste.

However, feel free to get creative by blending different paprikas to suit your preference.

Cayenne pepper: When looking for cayenne pepper alternatives, you have a variety of choices. You can use spicy paprika for a milder kick, or opt for milder cayenne pepper powder.

Additionally, crushed red pepper flakes can be added gradually for extra spice, and sriracha powder provides both heat and a hint of garlic.

Adjust the quantity to achieve your preferred level of spiciness.

Dried oregano: When substituting oregano, try dried basil for a similar herbaceous flavor, dried thyme for earthiness, or marjoram for a hint of sweetness.

These alternatives allow you to adapt your spice blend to suit your taste and the specific flavors you're aiming to achieve in your recipes.

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.

📋 Variations

  • Smoky Chili Powder: Substitute sweet paprika with smoked paprika to give your chili powder a rich and smoky flavor.
  • Extra Spicy Chili Powder: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick, perfect for those who love intense heat.
  • Herb-Infused Chili Powder: Add 1 teaspoon of dried basil or thyme to the mix, in addition to the other ingredients, for a unique herbal twist.
  • Mexican-Inspired Chili Powder: Incorporate 1 and ½ teaspoons of ground coriander into the mix for a flavor profile that's reminiscent of traditional Mexican chili powders.
  • Savory Garlic-Chili Powder: Infuse your homemade chili powder with 1 and ½ teaspoons of roasted garlic powder, enhancing the depth of flavor in your dishes.

🔪 Instructions

Spices needed for homemade chili powder in a shallow dish.

Step 1: Place all the ingredients in a bowl or jar.

Homemade chili powder in a shallow dish.

Step 2: Mix until well combined.

Homemade chili powder in a shallow dish after grinding in a spice grinder.

Step 3: To achieve a finer texture, grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder, a coffee grinder, a high-speed blender, or a mortar and pestle.

Small jar with homemade chili powder.

Step 4: Store in a cool, dark, and dry place in an airtight container for up to 1 year.

💭 Expert tips

  1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh paprika and freshly ground spices, for the best flavor in your spice blend.
  2. Toast the Spices: If desired, lightly toast the spices before mixing to enhance their flavors. Be careful not to over-toast, as it can turn bitter.
  3. Balancing Flavors: Adjust cayenne pepper and other ingredients to taste. Begin with small amounts and add more for the desired heat.
  4. Proper Storage: Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness and flavor for a longer period.
  5. Label and Date: Label it with the creation date to keep track of its freshness and ensure you use it within its optimal period.

❓Recipe FAQs

How long does homemade chili powder last?

It can typically last for about 1 to 3 years when stored in a cool, dark, and dry place in an airtight container.

However, its shelf life can vary depending on the freshness of the individual spices and the quality of the storage conditions.

To ensure the longest shelf life and best flavor, it's a good practice to label the container with the date it was made and to store it away from heat, light, and moisture.

If you notice any changes in aroma, color, or flavor, it's best to replace it with a fresh batch.

Can I store it in the refrigerator or freezer?

Yes, you can store it in the refrigerator or freezer to extend its shelf life, but it's not always necessary if stored in a cool, dry place. Use airtight containers to prevent moisture and odors from affecting it.

How do I adjust the spiciness?

You can easily adjust the spiciness by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper you include in the recipe. To make it milder, reduce the cayenne pepper.

For a spicier blend, increase the amount of cayenne pepper. It's a good practice to start with smaller quantities and gradually add more until you reach your desired level of heat.

Remember that a little cayenne pepper can go a long way, so taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of spiciness.

What can I substitute for cayenne pepper if I want a milder version?

You can substitute cayenne pepper with alternatives like sweet or smoked paprika, ancho chili powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, or even red pepper flakes (crushed red pepper).

These options offer a milder heat profile while adding unique flavors. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste preferences to achieve the desired level of spiciness.

What dishes can I season with homemade chili powder?

It enhances classics like chili and taco seasoning. It elevates roasted veggies, soups, and stews.

You can spice up BBQ sauce, dips, and snacks. Whether grilling, seasoning, or spicing up pasta, it's your culinary ally.

Try it in my Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Pulled Pork, Jackfruit Carnitas, Vegan Quesadilla, Vegan Tacos, and Soyrizo recipes for an extra kick!

Black teaspoon with homemade chili powder.

🌶️ More spice blend recipes

  • How To Make Garam Masala. - Learn how to make garam masala, a blend of ground spices common in Indian cuisine. This homemade version is so inexpensive and ready in less than 5 minutes. #vegan #glutenfree #simpleveganblog
    How To Make Garam Masala
  • Photo of a small glass jar of curry powder
    Curry Powder
  • Photo of a glass jar of homemade chicken seasoning
    Chicken Seasoning
  • A close shot of a glass jar with homemade Italian seasoning
    Italian Seasoning

⭐️ Did you like this recipe? Please consider giving it a 5-star rating and comment below!

Handcrafted chili powder in a small jar.
5 from 3 votes

Homemade Chili Powder Recipe (2 Minutes)

Discover the perfect Homemade Chili Powder Recipe! Ready in just 2 minutes, this blend of 6 simple ingredients makes it incredibly easy to add a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.
Prep: 2 minutes mins
Total: 2 minutes mins
Servings: 4 tablespoons
PRINT PIN COMMENT


Ingredients  

  • 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons onion powder
Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions 

  • Place all the ingredients in a bowl or jar.
  • Mix until well combined.
  • To achieve a finer texture, grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder, a coffee grinder, a high-speed blender, or a mortar and pestle.
  • Store in a cool, dark, and dry place in an airtight container for up to 1 year.

Video

Notes

  • Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh paprika and freshly ground spices, for the best flavor in your spice blend.
  • Toast the Spices: If desired, lightly toast the spices before mixing to enhance their flavors. Be careful not to over-toast, as it can turn bitter.
  • Balancing Flavors: Adjust cayenne pepper and other ingredients to taste. Begin with small amounts and add more for the desired heat.
  • Proper Storage: Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness and flavor for a longer period.
  • Label and Date: Label it with the creation date to keep track of its freshness and ensure you use it within its optimal period.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoon | Calories: 21kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 5mg | Potassium: 126mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1947IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment below and let me know how it was!
Course: How to
Cuisine: American
Author: Iosune Robles

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Teaspoon filled with homemade chili powder.
Small container holding homemade chili powder.
Iosune with a glass of juice.

Hi, I'm Iosune!

I share easy and delicious vegan recipes perfect for everyday meals and special occasions, all made with simple, everyday ingredients.

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Teaspoon filled with homemade chili powder.
Small container holding homemade chili powder.

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