Chiles for your Chili
When you want to add that extra kick to customize your chili, you can add various chili powders to layer flavors, not just heat. Classic chili powder adds that unmistakable blend of dried ground chiles, herbs and spices. Though all brands vary their recipe, chili powder usually includes cumin, garlic, oregano and salt. If a recipe calls for “chili seasoning mix,” that suggests using a packet or envelope found in the spice aisle. These usually include flour or a thickener for preparing homemade chili.
New Mexican-style chili powder adds a moderate amount of heat compared to classic chili powder. Deep-red ancho chile powder, made from dried poblano chiles, adds a mild chile flavor without much additional heat. Ground chipotle chile powder, made from ground dried, smoked jalapeño chiles, adds a distinctive aroma and bold flavor.
Paprika, one of the most popular chile powders, adds a vibrant deep-orange color and is sold sweet, hot or smoked. Because cayenne, or ground red pepper, packs an immediate wallop of heat, judiciously add to most recipes a pinch at a time.
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