Karl’s Quick Chili Powder

Chili powder—as a blend of spices—is composed chiefly of chile peppers and mixed with other spices including cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and salt. While there is some agreement about which spices this blend should contain, the amount of each is a matter for debate. This is not improved by the linguistic confusion between “chili powder”—as a blend of spices—and the “chili powder”—as in powdered dried chilies—used in those blends. In addition to the basic ingredients, some add other herbs and spices and still call it “chili powder.”

Karl’s Quick Chili Powder

Note: There is a further confusion between blended “chili powder” and “taco seasoning.” There is enough variation that one person’s chili powder could be another’s taco seasoning. The primary difference seems to be the addition of red pepper flakes

Sometimes you want chili powder, but you do not have the time to go to all of the effort of roasting and grinding the dried chilies. This recipe is for a quick, basic chili powder blend for a weekday meal. However, for those for whom even this is too much effort there is always a commercial blend.

Karl’s Quick Chili Powder

Ingredients

1 Tbs. ancho chili powder
½ Tbs. paprika
½ Tbs. cumin, ground
1 tsp. Mexican oregano
1 tsp. Kosher salt
½ tsp. onion powder
½ tsp. garlic powder
pinch+ cayenne

Directions

1. Put all of the ingredients in a bowl and stir to mix.

Tip: For a complete blend put the ingredients in a spice grinder and process for 30 seconds.

Note: This recipe produces 3 tablespoons of chili powder, just enough for Quick Beef Chili.