How to Make your own Chili Seasoning Mix

Making your own chili seasoning mix saves you money and gives you more control over what goes into your chili. For example, some commercial seasoning mixes have wheat flour, which is dangerous for individuals with celiac disease -- an allergy to the gluten in wheat and other grains. Making your own seasoning mix also lets you control the sodium content. You can make just enough mix for one batch of chili, but your best bet is to make it in bulk to have it on hand for future dishes.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2 cup chili powder
• ¼ cup dried onion
• 1/8 cup paprika
• 1/8 cup cinnamon
• 2 tbsp. cayenne pepper
• 2 tbsp. minced garlic
• 1 tbsp. salt, optional
• 16-oz Mason jar

Instructions

1. Combine all of the spices in the 16-oz. Mason jar. Put the lid on the jar.

2. Shake the jar to blend all the spices together. If you wish to test the aroma of the spices, let the jar sit for 30 minutes first to let the spices settle.

3. Store the jar in a pantry or cupboard for up to six months.

Tips & Warnings

• To use the spice mix, start with 2 tbsp. of chili seasoning for the pot. Let the chili simmer for 20 minutes then add more seasoning to taste.

References

• "Chili Nation"; Jane Stern, et al.; 1999