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Spicy exchange / 2023

Homemade chili seasoning recipe using garden fresh peppers

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Why homemade chili seasoning?

If you want your chili to leave a lasting impression, this recipe is exactly what you need. The combination of fresh chilis and powdered spices adds an extra “WOW” factor to your dish,

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Free pepper growing guide

Not sure where to start? I've put together a 34-page guide to help you grow an abundant harvest.

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The options for the kind of peppers to use in chili are nearly endless. In this recipe, we recommend a mix of sweet and hot peppers but feel free to get creative and use whatever you have on hand.

What kind of peppers to use in chili

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How to make this chili seasoning hotter or milder

To achieve a milder or hotter chili, you have several options. You can adjust the ratio of sweet to hot peppers in the mix. If you prefer a milder flavor, increase the proportion of sweet peppers, whereas for a spicier kick, incorporate more hot peppers of your choice.

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Most store-bought chili seasoning packets contain some sort of thickener, so you may find your chili is liquidier than you like. One option is to create a quick microwave roux by combining two tablespoons of flour with two tablespoons of fat, such as olive oil or butter.

How to thicken your chili

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How much chili seasoning per 1lb of meat (or veggies)

For each 1lb of meat, a good starting point for the chili seasoning is five tablespoons. If the flavor is not yet at your desired level, you can gradually add an additional tablespoon and continue to taste until it perfectly matches your preferences.

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Since the recipe uses partially dried fresh peppers, storing any leftover seasoning in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator is essential. Save it for up to 2 weeks, or dry the chilis completely to save it in the pantry long-term.

How to save this chili seasoning

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Full ingredients list

– 10-15 hot and sweet peppers e.g. jalapeño, bell, poblano, habanero – 2 tsp salt – 1 tsp black pepper – 2 tsp onion powder – 2 tsp garlic powder – 2 tsp dried oregano – 1 tbsp paprika powder – 2 tbsp cumin powder – 4 tbsp chili powder

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Slice the chili peppers and par-dry them in the oven or a dehydrator. Allow the peppers to cool before grinding them with the dry ingredients.

Instructions

Get the free guide to growing chili peppers

The "green thumb" is a myth — with the right information, anyone can successfully grow peppers. Enjoy this free 34-page guide to help you grow an abundant harvest.

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