I used to go through a bottle of small spice mixes a week (at least!) cooking for a large family at home. I decided to try my hand at creating my own and I haven't looked back. This spicy spice recipe combines delicious ingredients without preservatives and additives. Add it to your next queue pile of chilior fix some scrambled eggs for breakfast!
The best chili
I just started making my own homemade spice mix of bulk ingredients, I was shocked at how much a small packet of spices cost at the store. For the price of just a few tablespoons of chili powder, I could buy half a pound of spice and make my own. Now, I make (almost) all of our spice mixes and my kids love to help. A few years ago my friend Layla Ali (yes, Mohammed Ali's daughter!) created some delicious spice mixes that we use too.
Homemade spice mixes save money and help you avoid harmful ingredients found in many premixed spices and packages. They are also a great project to make with young children as they require no cutting, cooking or heating. My kids loved helping measure and mix with me!
You can completely revamp your spice cabinet in a day by making your own homemade spice mixes and storing them in small glass jars.
What's in the chili spice mix?
In stores, it's an overpriced packet of premixed seasonings, often with some anti-caking agents and artificial flavors. Most often, chili is a blend of 5-8 spices including chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and others.
The chili spice is similar to homemade taco seasoning AND fajita seasoning. While there are many of the same ingredients, there is more of an emphasis on chili powder. I like to start with good quality chili powder for the best flavor. If you like more of a kick, you can add some black pepper, red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to your hot spices.
Chili Spice vs Chili Powder
So what is the difference between chili spice mix and chili powder?
Basically, all chili spice mixes contain chili powder, along with many other ingredients. However, not all chili powders are part of the chili spice mix. Chili powders can be made from a single pepper or a blend and can be used alone or in spice blends.
Feeling DIY?
Here is a great tutorial on how make your own chili powder dehydrating the peppers. You can use chili peppers for a spicier powder or even bell peppers for a milder sweet flavor.
What are the spices in chili spices?
Chili powder is usually the main ingredient with a mixture of cumin, garlic, onion powder, oregano and other spices. You can make it with or without salt. I prefer to make it without salt and add salt according to the recipe I am using.
How many tablespoons are in a packet of chilies?
If you've only ever bought packets of chili spice mix, you'll love it when you make your own. Without fillers and additives, you don't need as much and the flavor is much more vibrant.
While chili packets have about 1/3 cup of mix, this often includes flour and other fillers. I think 2-3 tablespoons of homemade chili mix is the same as a packet of chili spices. In most recipes, I start with 1½ to 2 tablespoons per pound of meat or vegetables or other foods I'm using. You can always add more to taste.
Chili Spice Mix Recipe
This simple chili spice mix includes chili powder, garlic, cumin, onion powder, and more for a delicious addition to any chili recipe. It tastes great in other dishes too!
Nutrition facts
Chili Spice Mix Recipe
Amount per serving (1 tablespoon)
Calories 8
Calories from fat 3
% Daily Value*
Fat 0.3 g0%
Sodium 19 mg1%
potassium 44 mg1%
Carbohydrates 1.5 g1%
Fiber 0.6 g3%
Protein 0.4 g1%
Vitamin A 398 IU8%
Vitamin C 0.1 mg0%
Calcium 12 mg1%
Iron 0.7 mg4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- Use 2-3 tablespoons of this mixture to replace a packet of store-bought chilies.
- Use 1½-2 tablespoons for every pound of beef or other meat in a recipe.
Storage and expiration date
I store this chili powder in an airtight glass jar and it lasts up to a year, although it tastes best in the first six months. Make sure to keep it in a cool, dark place away from direct light and heat.
Where to get spices
Where I used to have dozens of spices from the grocery store, I now have a dozen small glass jars of pre-mixed spices. I save a lot of time and money using them! I buy most of my spices in bulk from Frontier Brand Organic on Amazon.
Chili recipe
This is great to have on hand to make quick chili on a busy night and is also great for omelets and roasted vegetables. Of course, this works great in almost any chili pot, but here are some of the recipes we love using it!
Do you make your own spice mixes? What's your favorite way to use chili spices? Leave a comment and let us know!
