Chilli Powder & Flakes

At its simplest, chilli powder may be made from dried chillies that have been ground and pulverized into a fine powder, such as cayenne pepper. However, many chilli powders also contain a number of other spices to enhance the flavour and to change the intensity of the powder's heat. Spices that may be added include garlic powder, cumin, paprika, oregano and salt.

Both types of powder are used to add heat and flavour to dishes and, depending on the variety, may range in intensity from mild or red-hot. Mild chilli powder may be used to spice up dishes such as shepherd's pie or Bolognese sauce, or can be added to dips, sauces and dressings. Hot powders are ideal for adding to savoury dishes that require a particularly spicy flavour, such as chilli con carne, and other Mexican-style dishes such as tacos or tortillas. They are also excellent for adding into tomato-based sauces, dressings or dips.

Chilli Powder

Chilli Flakes

The choice of chilli powder to use in a particular dish can also depend on the type of chilli. For example, chipotle chile powder gives an earthy taste that enhances the flavor of marinades, barbecued meats and sauces, grilling rubs, meat chillies, hot and spicy stews, dips, soups and roasted vegetables. Ancho, pasilla and New Mexico chilli powder provides a mild spicy taste with a fruity flavour that works particularly well with burritos, taco, and tamale fillings, seafood, grilled meats, stews, meat rubs, meat and bean chillies, bean dishes, guacamole and other similar foods.

Chilli flakes, also called crushed chillies, are excellent for spicing up tomato sauces and pasta, and can give a lift to many sautéed and stir-fried recipes. They are particularly good when combined with garlic and anchovies.