Tim's Chili Seasoning Mix

My Secret Chili Seasoning Blend: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknight dinners need to be quick, easy, and most importantly, delicious. That's where my secret weapon comes in: my homemade chili seasoning mix. This isn't just any blend; it's the culmination of years of experimenting in the kitchen, tweaking and refining until I achieved the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory. Forget store-bought mixes packed with artificial ingredients – this recipe is all natural goodness, and it's incredibly simple to make.

The beauty of this seasoning mix lies in its versatility. I use it as the foundation for my hearty chili, a dish that's always a hit with my family. But the possibilities don't end there. It's fantastic sprinkled on tacos, added to stews, or even used as a flavorful rub for grilled meats. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! Seriously, the smell fills my kitchen and my whole house smells so amazing for days after. I often make a large batch and store it in airtight containers to have on hand whenever I crave a burst of flavor. The whole process takes no more than 15 minutes; this recipe is truly a time-saver for any busy cook. The other great thing about having a large batch on hand is that I can use it in any amount I need; I can easily adjust the spice levels in my dish as needed.

This recipe is the result of years of experimentation and adaptation; I've tweaked and refined it over time, always seeking that perfect balance of flavors. I'm not a professional chef, just a home cook who loves to share her passion for creating delicious and easy meals. This chili seasoning mix is a testament to that passion. I use this recipe to make chili, so I use a whole lot of seasoning. The seasoning itself is so flavorful that I am using less chili than I would have in the past! It has changed my chili-making life and I am never going back.

I encourage you to experiment with the recipe, adjusting the quantities of spices to your own taste preferences. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat, or a dash of oregano for a more Mediterranean flair. The beauty of cooking is in its flexibility, and this chili seasoning mix is no exception.

So, go ahead and whip up a batch of my secret chili seasoning mix. I promise you, it'll become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
• 2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 8 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 to 1 tablespoon ground red pepper or double amount if red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic or additional 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Instructions: (Note: Detailed instructions on using the seasoning mix in a chili recipe will be shared in a future blog post.)

• Combine all ingredients in a bowl or jar.
• Mix thoroughly until well combined.
• Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Tips and Variations:

• For a spicier chili, increase the amount of red pepper.
• Add other spices to customize the flavor profile. Smoked paprika, oregano, or thyme all work well.
• Adjust the amount of salt to your liking.
• This seasoning mix can be stored for several months in an airtight container.

Step-by-step

• Mix well in a bowl or jar.
• Store in an airtight container.
• I use 7 to 8 tablespoons for a full, large slow cooker.
• Add less and add more later if needed.