Cookbook:Chili Powder

| Chili

Chili powder is a spice blend, made from assorted chiles and other spices and seasonings. Do not confuse it with pure chile powder.

Characteristics
For the most part, chili powder is red in color with a smoky, complex flavor. The heat will depend on the variety of chile used, as well as the ratio of chile to other spices. Typically, these other spices include cumin, paprika, oregano, and garlic powder, and they may include salt.

Selection and storage
Make sure not to accidentally select pure chile powder instead of chili powder. Since all blends do differ, you'll want to use a blend that is as close as possible to the one used in your recipe in order to get the same result.

Like all ground spices, chili powder is relatively shelf stable but will lose its flavor faster than whole spices. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture.

Use
Like its name indicates, chili powder is most often used in chili con carne and other Tex-Mex dishes. It can also be used as a seasoning for meats.

Substitution
If you can't get your hands on chili powder commercially, it is relatively easy to make your own blend from its constituent spices.