Spice | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Chili

Capsicum annuum Allergen-Free
chili

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Tex-Mex|Southwestern US
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Dried chili peppers

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond mere heat, chili peppers contribute a complex layer of fruitiness, smokiness, or earthiness, transforming dishes with their nuanced piquancy."

Definition

A ground spice made from dried chili peppers, often blended with other spices like cumin, oregano, and garlic, used for heat and flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteSpicy, Earthy, Smoky, Pungent
TextureFine Powder
AromaPungent, Earthy, Spicy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Active Compound

Capsaicin (responsible for heat).

Global Cultivation

Grown in nearly every continent.

Heat Measurement

Scoville Heat Units (SHU).

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tsp (2g)
Calories282 kcal
Total Fat14.3 g
Saturated Fat2.6 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein13.4 g
Total Carbohydrate50 g
Dietary Fiber35 g
Total Sugars10.3 g
Calcium148 mg
Iron13.9 mg
Potassium1990 mg

Chef’s Secret

Toasting chili powder lightly in a dry pan before adding liquid can deepen its flavor and release hidden aromatics.

Substitutions

Best Match

Cayenne Pepper (less complex)

1:4 (cayenne:chili powder)

Provides heat, but lacks the complex, earthy notes of a chili powder blend. Start with less.

Paprika + Cumin + Garlic Powder

Equal parts to taste

Builds a similar flavor profile, paprika for color, cumin for earthiness. Add cayenne for heat.

Chipotle Powder

1:1

Adds similar heat and a distinctive smoky flavor, but is more intense.

Smoked Paprika + Black Pepper

1:1 (paprika:chili powder), add pepper to taste

Good for color and smoky notes, but minimal heat.

Buying Guide

Choose high-quality, freshly ground powder for best flavor. Store in an airtight container away from light.

Flavor Pairings

Beef Beans Tomatoes Onions Cumin Oregano Chocolate (in mole).

Recipes Using Chili

Akoori Parsi Scrambled Eggs image 147
Omelets And Frittatas Omelets And Frittatas Occasion Indian

Akoori Parsi Scrambled Eggs

Spice up your morning with Akoori Parsi, a flavorful and vibrant Persian scrambled egg recipe! This quick and easy breakfast dish combines fluffy scrambled eggs with aromatic spices like turmeric and coriander, and a delightful hint of chili. Perfect served with warm chapatis for a truly authentic experience.

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Almond Zucchini Burritos image
Course North American Mexican Vegetables

Almond Zucchini Burritos

This award-winning recipe, a California Almond Growers cooking contest grand prize winner, is a delicious and unexpected vegetarian delight! Bursting with fresh zucchini, crunchy almonds, and zesty salsa, these burritos are surprisingly satisfying – even meat-lovers rave! Perfect for using up summer zucchini, this easy recipe comes together in under an hour and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion!

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Almost Instant Black Bean Chili image 139
3 Steps Or Less Main Dish Vegetables Taste Mood

Almost Instant Black Bean Chili

This incredibly flavorful black bean chili recipe from PCRM is ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this vibrant chili is packed with protein and satisfying spices. Skip the long simmer and enjoy a delicious, healthy chili without the wait. Get your taste buds ready for a fiesta!

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Amazing Roasted Shrimp With Garlic image 153
Main Ingredient Equipment Portuguese Dietary

Amazing Roasted Shrimp With Garlic

Experience a taste of Bobby Flay-inspired culinary magic with this incredible roasted garlic shrimp recipe! Perfectly roasted shrimp with a rich, garlicky, and slightly spicy sauce. Serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping or tossed over pasta with a squeeze of lemon for an unforgettable meal. This recipe is quick, easy, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under an hour!

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And The Winner Is Beets image 129
4 Hours Or Less Time To Make North American Number Of Servings

And The Winner Is Beets

This spicy pickled beet recipe was a family favorite, winning a taste test against three other contenders! The secret? A touch of chili heat that adds a delicious kick. My daughter even hides her jars from the other kids – that's how good it is! This is the ONLY pickled beet recipe you'll ever need. Prepare to be amazed by the vibrant color and irresistible flavor.

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Another Shrimp Creole image 160
North American Tomatoes Shellfish Main Ingredient

Another Shrimp Creole

Dive into a flavor explosion with this Another Shrimp Creole recipe! Sweet molasses, fiery chilies, and savory Worcestershire sauce create a perfect balance of sweet, hot, and salty in every bite. This easy 30-minute recipe is served over fluffy rice with a kick of Louisiana hot sauce on the side – the ultimate comfort food with a Cajun twist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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Avocado And Goat Cheese Dip image 165
Mexican Taste Mood Dips Main Ingredient

Avocado And Goat Cheese Dip

Creamy, dreamy, and ridiculously delicious! This Avocado and Goat Cheese Dip is a twist on classic guacamole, adding the tangy, smooth richness of goat cheese for an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for parties, snacks, or a quick and healthy weeknight meal.

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