Is buying chili seasoning worth it, or is homemade better?
Thinking of making your own chili seasoning? You’ve found the right spot. It takes just 10 minutes to prepare. This recipe has wowed many, scoring a fantastic 4.77 out of 5 from 97 reviews.
Make something delicious using basic ingredients like chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. This mix beats store-bought packets in taste and health benefits. It works great on both meats and veggies. Ready to try making it?
Introduction to Homemade Chili Seasoning
Making your own chili seasoning at home brings exciting flavors into your kitchen. You start with core spices like chili powder and cumin. Then, add garlic and onion powders for aroma. Making your mix means you can adjust it to your taste and avoid the added chemicals in store versions.
- 2 tablespoons of chili powder
- 2 teaspoons of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, paprika, oregano, and cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
Cocoa powder, a secret ingredient, brings richness and depth. You can adjust salt and spices to make your authentic chili seasoning recipe perfect for you.
Store-Bought Packet | Homemade Mix |
---|---|
Preservatives Included | No Preservatives |
Fixed Spice Levels | Adjustable Spice Levels |
Includes Thickening Agents | No Thickening Agents (Optional Masa Harina) |
Shelf Life: 6 Months | Shelf Life: 1 Year |
Average Flavor | Five-Star Flavor |
Our authentic chili seasoning recipe stands out for its amazing taste. Store it right, and it stays fresh for six months. Adding it just before the liquid lets the spices blend beautifully, turning any chili into a hit with everyone.
Ingredients for a Flavorful Chili Seasoning Mix
Making the perfect chili seasoning mix means mixing the right spices and extras. A good mix can turn simple food into a delicious dish. Let’s explore what you’ll need:
Main Spices
- Chili powder – 5 tablespoons
- Cumin – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic powder – 2 tablespoons
- Paprika (or smoked paprika) – 2 tablespoons
- Onion powder – 1 1/2 tablespoons
- Oregano – 1 tablespoon
Additional Ingredients
- Salt – 2 teaspoons
- Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat) – 1/4 teaspoon
This blend makes about 15 tablespoons of a great chili spice mix. It takes just 5 minutes to prepare. This recipe is your go-to for quickly adding flavor to dishes.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chili Seasoning
Making your own chili seasoning lets you pick the taste. It ensures your spice mix is always fresh and lively. Follow these instructions to create a seasoning that will be perfect for any dish.
Gather Your Ingredients
Start by collecting all the ingredients for a simple chili seasoning mix. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 4 teaspoons ground cumin
- 4 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 3/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Mix Thoroughly
Now, mix all your ingredients in a big bowl. Stir well with a whisk or spoon. This mixing step is important to get the perfect flavor blend. Aim for a smooth mix without any lumps.
Store in an Airtight Container
Put your chili seasoning in a container that seals tight. Storing it right keeps it strong. Keep it in a cool, dark spot to last up to six months. Here’s a tip: use 2 tablespoons of this mix for every pound of meat.
Component | Amount per Serving | Daily Value |
---|---|---|
Calories | 24 | – |
Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
Protein | 1g | 2% |
Fat | 1g | 1% |
Vitamin A | 1799IU | 36% |
Sodium | 373mg | 16% |
Potassium | 136mg | 4% |
Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Sugar | 1g | 1% |
Calcium | 26mg | 3% |
Iron | 2mg | 11% |
Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
How This Chili Seasoning Recipe Saves You Money
Making your own chili seasoning at home saves money. Store-bought packets add up, especially if you use one every week. By making a big batch with bulk spices, you can enjoy homemade savings.
A store-bought packet costs the same as 2-3 tablespoons of your DIY mix. Using ½ cup chili powder, ¼ cup each of garlic powder and ground cumin, 3 tablespoons onion powder, 2 tablespoons each of oregano and paprika, and maybe 1 tablespoon thyme, you can spice up 12 pots of chili.
This DIY method is budget-friendly. Buying spices in bulk saves money compared to single packets. Instead of a few tablespoons, you get half a pound of spice.
Here’s a peek at the savings:
Measure | Store-Bought | Homemade |
---|---|---|
Cost per Serving | $1.50 per packet | $0.50 per 2 tablespoons |
Number of Servings | 1 | 6 |
Total Preparation Time | Instant | 5 minutes |
Shelf Life | 6 months | 12 months |
Customization | None | High |
Creating your own mix means big savings and better flavor. You can customize the flavor and keep it fresh in an airtight glass jar for up to a year. It tastes best in the first six months.
Unique Uses for Chili Seasoning Beyond Chili
Chili seasoning isn’t just for chili. It boosts flavor in many dishes. Try it out and spice up your meals.
Enhance Your Breakfast
Want to spice up your morning? Add chili seasoning to scrambled eggs or a tofu scramble. It’s a game changer.
It’s great on avocado toast or for flavoring breakfast potatoes. This trick makes breakfast exciting and full of zest.
Season Your Sides
A little chili seasoning can transform your side dishes. Try it on roasted veggies like broccoli or carrots.
Mix it into rice or quinoa for a flavorful boost. These ideas will make your sides stand out.
Diversify Your Dips
Make your dips more interesting with chili seasoning. Add it to hummus, guacamole, or sour cream for a spicy twist.
This tip is great for parties or enhancing your snacks. Your dips will be the highlight of any event.
Benefits of Making Your Own Chili Seasoning
Making your own chili seasoning is not just fun, but also good for your health. You can pick the best spices and avoid the bad stuff found in store-bought packets. This is great news for folks who need to eat clean or have special diet needs.
When you make it yourself, you can adjust the salt and sugar to your liking. Take Jonathan Porter’s recipe, for example. It mixes spices like chili powder and ground cumin with other tasty ingredients. You’ll know exactly what’s going into your food, keeping it nutritious with 99 calories and lots of vitamins in each serving.
“Paprika’s benefits extend beyond its vibrant color—it contains vitamins A, C, and E, which are great for vision and the immune system.”
Homemade chili seasoning also boosts your vitamin intake. Paprika alone can give you a big portion of Vitamin A and iron you need every day. These natural spices are packed with health benefits that you won’t find in the artificial ones.
Making chili seasoning can be a fun project for the whole family. It’s a cool way to teach kids about spices and how to eat healthily. Plus, it’s a chance to spend quality time together making something delicious.
Pairing Your Chili Seasoning with Different Recipes
Homemade chili seasoning can spice up many dishes. It makes traditional recipes taste better and everyday meals more exciting. Try mixing this flavorful blend into both classic and modern dishes.
Classic Chili
A warm bowl of classic chili is pure comfort. The seasoning adds depth and warmth. It combines perfectly with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and more. This makes your meal a hit for any gathering.
Tacos
Make taco nights special with homemade seasoning. It works great with beef, chicken, or veggie fillings. Each bite offers a mix of smoky, spicy, and savory.
Casseroles
Chili seasoning can also enhance your casseroles. Use it in enchilada casseroles, stuffed peppers, or Tex-Mex bakes. It blends well with cheese, vegetables, and meats for a delicious meal.
With a versatile chili seasoning, you can improve your favorite dishes. These recipes show how your homemade blend can be a kitchen essential. Enjoy delightful flavors in every meal.
Tips for Storing and Using Your Chili Seasoning Mix
Keep your homemade chili seasoning mix fresh by storing it in a sealed glass jar. Place it in a spot that’s cool and dark. This keeps the seasoning good for up to six months, making sure you get full flavor from your spices.
“Proper storage is key to preserving the essence of your homemade spice blends.”
Begin with 1½-2 tablespoons of chili mix for each pound of meat or veggies. You can always add more to taste. This is a good starting point to make any dish tasty.
Making a big batch of chili seasoning saves time. Here’s a simple recipe:
Spice | Measurement |
---|---|
Chili Powder | ½ cup |
Cumin | 2½ tablespoons |
Cayenne Pepper | 2 teaspoons |
Garlic Powder | 2 teaspoons |
Onion Powder | 4 teaspoons |
Salt | 2½ tablespoons |
Black Pepper | 4 teaspoons |
This mix isn’t just for chili. It can add flavor to many dishes. After six months, chili seasoning can lose its strength, even when stored right. Use fresh spices less than six months old for the best blend.
Here’s the nutritional info per serving for a basic recipe:
- Calories: 40
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 2461mg
- Potassium: 191mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Vitamin A: 2560IU
- Calcium: 45mg
- Iron: 2.7mg
These tips and measurements will help you make great use of your chili mix. You’ll boost both the taste and ease of your cooking.
Conclusion
Making your own chili seasoning lets you explore new flavors. It’s healthier and saves money. You can make it mild or spicy to fit any diet.
Ingredients like dehydrated garlic and lime zest add punch to the mix. Adding cascabel chilis and Guinness-infused thyme brings out a deep flavor. It’s perfect not just for chili but for beef and pasta dishes too.
Keep your seasoning in a sealed container to make it last. It adds flavor without adding many calories. Remember, great seasoning turns simple meals into great dishes.
FAQ
What are the main spices in an easy chili seasoning mix?
Chili powder, cumin, and paprika are the main spices. They make the seasoning blend flavorful.
Can I customize a homemade chili seasoning to my taste?
Yes! Making your own seasoning means you can make it spicier or milder, just how you like it.
How long does it take to make a homemade chili seasoning mix?
It only takes about 10 minutes to make a quick mix. It’s a great choice for busy cooks.
What are the benefits of using a homemade chili seasoning blend?
Making your seasoning means better ingredient control. You can avoid preservatives and customize it for your diet.
How much homemade chili seasoning should I use per pound of meat or vegetables?
Start with 1½-2 tablespoons per pound. Adjust to taste.
How can I store my chili spice mix to keep it fresh?
Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It will stay fresh for up to a year.
Are there unique ways to use chili seasoning beyond traditional chili?
Yes, it’s very versatile. Use it in breakfast dishes, to season sides, or add spice to dips and French fries.
Does making my own chili seasoning save money?
Yes, it’s usually cheaper than pre-made mixes. Buying spices in bulk and mixing them saves money.
What are some health benefits of a natural chili seasoning recipe?
A homemade mix has no preservatives or added chemicals. You control the salt and sugar, making it healthier.
Can chili seasoning be used in different recipes like tacos and casseroles?
Definitely! It adds a warm, deep flavor to tacos, casseroles, and more, broadening your cooking possibilities.