Guide Note

Chili Powder is a combination of ground chile pepper with other herbs and spices, used to flavor chili and other dishes. It can vary in heat and flavor depending on the amount and variety of chile used.

DeWitt Clinton Pendery created his version of chili powder in 1890, and in 1902 William Gebhardt created another version and it has been a popular spice ever since. Chili powder is not only used in chili but it can be used to flavor a variety of foods even popcorn.

If you are going to buy ready made chili powder check the expiration date because it has a limited shelf life. Chili powder needs to be stored in an airtight container and kept in a cool, dark, dry location. Some people like to make there own chili powder and there is an abundance of recipes to do so. The benefit of making your own chili powder is that you control the flavor by makeing it as hot or as mild as you like.

Fast Facts

1. Usual ingredients are ground chiles, ground cumin, garlic powder, and oregano
2. High quality Chili Powder is about 80% ground chile
3. Use 1-3T per quart of Chili
4. Invented in Texas in the 1800's
5. Ancho and Chipoltle are common chiles used
6. Chile powder, with and E, consists of dried and ground chili peppers, where as chili powder with and I, contains other spices