Chili powder (also powdered chili, chile powder or chilli powder) is the dried, pulverized fruit of one or more varieties of chili pepper, sometimes with the addition of other spices (also sometimes known as chili powder blend). It is used as a spice to add pungency or piquancy and flavor to dishes. In American English, the name is usually spelled "chili". In British English the spelling "chilli" (with two "l"s) is used consistently. Chili powder is sometimes known by the specific type of chili pepper used (such as cayenne pepper).
Chili powder is used in many different cuisines, including American cuisine, particularly in Tex-Mex, Chinese, Indian, Korean, Mexican, Portuguese, and Thai. Chili powder blends are the primary flavor ingredient in chili con carne.
Types of Chili Powder
Chili Powder: Dried spicy red chilies are grounded to make chili powder. It is very hot and is commonly used in Indian cuisine.
Kashmiri Chili Powder: They are very mild, milder dried chilies (these chilies are deep red colored and have wrinkled skin) are used to make it. Instantly imparts a vibrant red color to any dish with a hint of heat as well. Used commonly in Indian cuisine.
Paprika: Either bell peppers or chili pepper varieties or both are grounded to make this. Usually, they are very mild and impart bright red color to any dish. Sometimes, you could find mild, medium and hot paprika, so depending on your needs choose it.
Cayenne: Cayenne chilies are grounded to make this spice. They are very hot and used to spice up any dish
Chili Powder Storage Tips
- Chili powder generally has a long shelf life when stored in an airtight container, away from heat and light.
- Placing a piece of asafetida in the container of chili powder will store the spice for a longer duration.
- When refrigerated, chili powder keeps well for one year and if kept in the freezer, it will last for up to two years.
- Although chili powder can retain its flavor properties for up to two years, it should be used within one year for maximum taste and flavor.