Learn all about Indian red chili powder- what it is, how to use it, and the different flavor profiles it offers. With recipes that include this spice, you'll be able to add a touch of heat and flavor to any dish!
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What Is Indian Red Chili Powder?
Indian red chili powder or lal mirch in Hindi is an Indian spice made from ground dried chili peppers. In Indian cuisine, it is used as a condiment, rubs for meat (tandoori chicken) or in seasoning foods.
The chile peppers used to make Indian red chili powder are typically small and incredibly spicy. As a result, the spice packs a major punch when it comes to taste.
Indian red chili powder is most commonly used in Indian food and Asian cuisines, but it can also be used to add heat to dishes from other culinary traditions.
When shopping for chili powder, look for a product that is made with 100% pure chili pepper. Avoid powders that contain added ingredients.
Chili Powder Vs Kashmiri Chili Powder
It is made from hot dried chile, while Kashmiri chili powder is made from Kashmiri dried chili, which is mild.
- The difference in heat level is due to the different types of chile used.
- Another difference between these two types of chili powder is the color. Indian Red Chili Powder is usually red in color, while Kashmiri red chili powder has a vibrant red color, people mostly use it when they want a mild chile taste and bright-looking curry.
These differences make Indian Red Chili Powder and Kashmiri red chilli powder two unique and versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of Indian dishes.
Indian Red Chili Vs Cayenne
Indian red chili powder and cayenne powder are common cooking spices. They both have a fiery flavor that can add a lot of heat to a dish. However, there are some key differences between these two spices.
- Indian red chilli powder is made from ground dried chile pepper, while cayenne pepper is made from ground dried cayenne peppers. As a result, cayenne pepper has a slightly sharper flavor than Indian red chilli powder.
- Indian red chili peppers are significantly hotter than cayenne pepper in terms of heat. Depending on the variety, the Scoville heat unit (SHU) of Indian chili pepper can range from 25,000 to 100,000, whereas that of cayenne pepper can be anywhere from 30,000 to 50,000.
Indian Red Chili Powder Vs Paprika
Indian red chili powder and paprika may look similar but have quite different flavor profiles. It is made from ground dried chilies with a strong, sharp flavor.
On the other hand, Paprika is made from a variety of sweet peppers, resulting in a much milder taste.
- Red chili powder is made from ground dried chilies, and Paprika, on the other hand, is made from a variety of dried or sweet peppers, resulting in a much milder taste.
- In terms of heat level, chili powder is significantly hotter than regular paprika or hot paprika. Because of its strong flavor, it is best used in small amounts to add a bit of heat to dishes. On the other hand, Paprika is made from a variety of sweet peppers, resulting in a much milder taste.
- Scoville Heat Units: Paprika can range between 250 - 1000 SHU, whereas chili powder can range from 25,000 to 100,000.
How To Grind Indian Red Chili Powder
To get started, you'll need whole Indian red chilies. You can find these at most Asian markets, or online.
I like to use a combination of dried red chilies and Byadagi chilies (from Karnataka), but you can use any Indian chili that you can find. You can also use chili flakes if you can't find whole chilies.
- To grind the chilies, I like to use a coffee grinder. You could also use a spice grinder, or even a mortar and pestle if you don't mind a little bit of elbow grease.
- Simply place the chilies in the grinder and pulse several times to create a fine powder.
- Once your chili powder is ground, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dark place.
- It should keep for several months. To use, add a teaspoon or two to your favorite dishes for your taste buds, make sure to add them at the early stage of cooking to get rid of the raw smell of the chili powder.
Red Chili Powder Recipes
People Also Ask [FAQs]
Is Red Chili Powder The Same As Cayenne?
No, cayenne pepper is not the same as Indian red chili powder. Cayenne pepper is made from ground dried cayenne peppers and has a slightly sharper flavor. Indian red chili powder is made from ground dried chilies.
Wrap Up: Indian Red Chili Powder
- They are made from ground dried chili peppers. It is used as a condiment or in seasoning Indian dishes.
- When shopping for Indian red chili powder, look for a product that is made with 100% pure chile peppers. Avoid powders that contain added ingredients.
- Indian red chilies are not the same as cayenne pepper or paprika. Indian red chilli powder is significantly hotter than paprika. Because of its strong flavor, it is best used in small amounts to add a bit of heat to dishes.
- Making your own chili powder is a great way to get the perfect blend of spices for your recipes.
🍽️ Recipe
Homemade Indian Chili Powder Recipe
Ingredients
- 15 each Dried chilies or any Indian dried red chilies of your choice
- 5 each Byadagi dried chilies optional optional
Instructions
- Start by removing the stems from the chilis. Then, cut them into small pieces so they'll fit easily into the blender.
- Add the chili pieces to the blender, along with any other spices if you want. (I like to use only dried red chilies).
- Blend until the mixture is finely ground.
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