Homemade Chili Powder
Create your own vibrant and flavorful chili powder at home with this easy recipe. Customize the heat and enjoy a fresher, more robust taste than store-bought blends.
Equipment
- spice grinder A dedicated coffee grinder can also be used.
- bowl Optional, if not using a grinder for mixing.
- mortar and pestle Alternative to a spice grinder for mixing.
- airtight glass jar For storage.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 0.75 ounce dried mild red chiles such as ancho, guajillo, or New Mexico, stemmed, seeded, and roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
Instructions
- Working in batches, pulse your dried, stemmed, and seeded chiles in a spice grinder until finely ground (about 1 minute). Aim for a powdery consistency.
- Add the ground chiles back into the grinder (or a bowl). Stir in the paprika, cumin, Mexican oregano, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.
Notes
Store in a clean, airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place for up to 6-12 months. For a smokier flavor, add smoked paprika or chipotle powder. For a touch of sweetness, add cocoa powder or brown sugar. Adjust cayenne pepper for desired heat level.