Introduction
Chili Seasoning is a classic spice blend, perfect for enhancing family dinners, gatherings, or flavorful chili dishes with a robust kick. This bold mix, featuring a balance of smoky, spicy, and savory spices, delivers a rich, aromatic flavor that elevates any chili recipe. Presented in a white ceramic jar or bowl, optionally garnished with a dried chili pepper, this Chili Seasoning recipe offers a rustic, appetizing aesthetic that enhances any kitchen. This recipe provides a simple, homemade version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing spice mix that brings vibrant charm to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Chili Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For Serving:
- Optional: Dried chili pepper (for garnish)
- Suggested Uses: Chili con carne, taco meat, roasted vegetables
- Suggested Pairings: Cornbread, sparkling water
- Suggested Aesthetic: Store in a white ceramic jar or bowl
- Suggested Equipment: Small mixing bowl, measuring spoons, whisk or spoon, airtight container
Step-by-Step Process
- Combine Spices: In a small mixing bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk or stir until evenly mixed.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste a pinch of the seasoning mix and adjust with a pinch of chili powder, salt, or cayenne for balanced flavor. Be cautious with cayenne to avoid overpowering heat.
- Store: Transfer the seasoning to a white ceramic jar or an airtight container for storage.
- Use: Use 2 tbsp of seasoning per 1 lb of meat or beans for chili, adjusting to taste. Add to recipes during cooking for maximum flavor infusion.
- Serve: Present the seasoning in a white ceramic jar or bowl, optionally garnished with a dried chili pepper. Use in chili con carne, taco meat, or roasted vegetables, and serve with cornbread or sparkling water.
Tips for Better Chili Seasoning
- Use fresh, high-quality spices for the best flavor; check expiration dates.
- Taste the dry mix before using to balance smoky, spicy, and savory flavors; adjust cautiously.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain potency for up to 6 months.
- Grind whole spices (e.g., cumin seeds) for a fresher, bolder flavor.
- Present in a white ceramic jar or bowl to highlight the vibrant spice mix and garnish.
- Make ahead: Prepare a double batch for quick use in future recipes.
- For a milder flavor, reduce cayenne or omit it entirely.
- Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with a dried chili pepper for a rustic, vibrant look.
Variations and Customization
- Low-Sodium Chili Seasoning: Omit salt or reduce to 1/4 tsp.
- Extra Spicy Chili Seasoning: Increase cayenne to 1/2 tsp or add 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes.
- Smoky Chili Seasoning: Increase smoked paprika to 2 tsp or add 1/2 tsp chipotle powder.
- Mexican Chili Seasoning: Add 1/2 tsp ground coriander and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon.
- Mild Chili Seasoning: Omit cayenne and reduce chili powder to 1 1/2 tbsp.
- Southwestern Chili Seasoning: Add 1/2 tsp dried cilantro and 1/4 tsp ground ancho chili.
- Gluten-Free Chili Seasoning: Ensure all spices are certified to be gluten-free (most are naturally gluten-free).
- Herb-Forward Chili Seasoning: Increase oregano to 1 1/2 tsp and add 1/2 tsp dried thyme.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months; shake before using to remix spices.
- Do not freeze; moisture can degrade spice quality; prepare fresh for best results.
- Use 1–2 tbsp per recipe, adjusting based on taste and dish size.
- Perfect for chili, tacos, soups, or roasted vegetables for versatile flavor.
- Pair with cornbread or sparkling water to complement the bold, spicy flavors.
- Present in a white ceramic jar or bowl with a dried chili pepper for an appetizing, rustic charm.
Nutritional Information
Based on 4 servings (2 tbsp each):
- Calories: 20 kcal
- Total Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 310mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Vitamin A: 25% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
- Calcium: 4% Daily Value
- Iron: 8% Daily Value
Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium to ~150mg). Low in calories; use sparingly for flavor.
Conclusion
This Chili Seasoning recipe delivers a bold, smoky spice mix perfect for any chili dish, transforming simple ingredients into a vibrant classic. Its quick preparation and rustic presentation make it a favorite. The balanced spices elevate every recipe. It’s sure to be a cherished blend, loved for its crowd-pleasing versatility.
Chili Seasoning Recipe: Bold and Smoky
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional
- Optional: Dried chili pepper
- Suggested Uses: Chili con carne cornbread
Instructions
- Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a bowl.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Store in a white ceramic jar or an airtight container.
- Use 2 tbsp per 1 lb of meat or beans.
- Present with dried chili pepper; use in chili, serve with cornbread.
Notes
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Store in a dry place for 6 months.
- Try a smoky or mild variation.
- Pair with roasted vegetables.
