. 1 teaspoon chilli powder
Rich in vitamin C, vitamin A (from carotenoids), and capsaicin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties. Contains essential minerals including potassium and iron, though consumed in small quantities due to its concentrated form.
About
Chilli powder is a ground spice blend derived primarily from dried red chilli peppers (Capsicum annuum), with regional formulations varying significantly in composition and heat level. The base ingredient consists of dehydrated chilli pods that are ground to a fine powder, though commercial blends often include additional spices such as cumin, garlic, oregano, and salt depending on origin and intended use. The flavor profile ranges from mild and fruity to intensely hot, determined by the chilli varieties used and their capsaicin content.
True chilli powder is distinct from cayenne pepper, which is a single-pepper spice with more consistent heat, and from curry powder, which incorporates turmeric and other warming spices. Mexican chilli powders (such as ancho, guajillo, or New Mexico varieties) tend toward earthier, more complex flavor notes, while Indian varieties may emphasize heat alongside aromatic undertones.
Culinary Uses
Chilli powder functions as both a flavoring agent and a heat modifier across global cuisines. In Mexican cooking, it is fundamental to salsas, moles, chili con carne, and bean-based dishes. Indian cuisine employs it extensively in curries, dals, and spice pastes. In Tex-Mex, American, and European cuisines, it seasons soups, stews, meats, and vegetable preparations. The spice is typically incorporated during the initial stages of cooking with aromatics to develop its flavor compounds, though it can also be used as a finishing spice. Its potency and blend composition require adjustment based on the specific brand and intended heat level.