Chili powder is a staple ingredient in many dishes, from Mexican and Indian to Chinese and North American cuisine. It adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor to a variety of dishes. But what can you do if you don’t have chili powder on hand in the pantry? Fortunately, there are plenty of good substitutes for chili powder that can help you achieve the same flavor and heat level. Here, we’ll look at eight of the best substitutes for chili powder you can use to replace it in your favorite recipes.
1. Paprika
Paprika is a popular substitute for chili powder. It is made from ground sweet red peppers and has a mild and sweet flavor. Paprika does not contain any heat, so it won’t add any spicy kick to your dish. It can be used as a one-to-one substitute for chili powder in most recipes.
2. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is a type of chili pepper that is very spicy. It is made from ground dried cayenne peppers and can be used as a substitute for chili powder in recipes that require a bit of heat. It is important to note that cayenne pepper is much spicier than chili powder, so you should use only a small amount when replacing chili powder.
3. Chili Paste
People make chili paste from chili peppers, garlic, and other spices. Chili paste surpasses chili powder in spiciness and serves as a substitute in recipes that require some heat. You can directly add chili paste to dishes, although it is advisable to combine it with a small amount of olive oil or water to dilute it before incorporating it into the dish.
4. Chili Flakes
Manufacturers make chili flakes by drying and crushing chili peppers, resulting in a highly spicy product. Chili flakes can substitute chili powder in recipes that demand a touch of spiciness. People frequently utilize them as a garnish for dishes, but they can also be directly added to recipes requiring heat.
5. Chipotle Powder
Chipotle powder is made from ground chipotle peppers and has a smoky, spicy flavor. It can be used as a substitute for chili powder in recipes that require a smoky flavor. It is important to note that chipotle powder is much spicier than chili powder, so you should use it sparingly.
6. Ancho Chili Powder
Ancho chili powder is made from ground ancho chili peppers and has a mild, earthy flavor. It can be used as a substitute for chili powder in recipes that require a milder flavor. It is important to note that ancho chili powder is much milder than chili powder, so you should use a bit more when substituting it.
7. Mexican Oregano
Mexican oregano is a type of oregano that is native to Mexico and has a distinct flavor. It is often used in Mexican cuisine and can be used as a substitute for chili powder in recipes that require a bit of heat and flavor. It is important to note that Mexican oregano is much milder than chili powder, so you should use a bit more when substituting it.
8. Curry Powder
Curry powder is a blend of spices, such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander. It has a distinct flavor and can be used as a substitute for chili powder in recipes that require a bit of flavor. It is important to note that curry powder is much milder than chili powder, so you should use a bit more when substituting it.
Conclusion
Chili powder is a common ingredient in many dishes, from Mexican and Indian to Chinese and North American cuisine. It adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor to a variety of dishes. However, if you don’t have chili powder on hand, there are plenty of good substitutes that can help you achieve the same flavor and heat level. Paprika, cayenne pepper, chili paste, chili flakes, chipotle powder, ancho chili powder, Mexican oregano, and curry powder are all good substitutes for chili powder. When substituting for chili powder, it is important to note that each of these ingredients has a different flavor and heat level, so you should adjust the amount accordingly.
