Spicy, earthy, and smoky, this DIY southwestern chili powder is the perfect flavor for south of the border soups, stews, grilled meats, and tacos. Next up for my DIY culinary herb and spice blends, in collaboration with Mountain Rose Herbs: Southwestern Chili Powder!

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If there is one relatively universal flavor loved by all – it might just be the taste of the American Southwest.  That Tex-Mex blend of chiles, earthy herbs, and pungent spices is a familiar comfort food for so many.  Are there not “Taco Tuesdays” at nearly every bar and grill?  Is guacamole not a necessary game day provision?  Who can pass by a bag of tortilla chips and a bowl of salsa without taking a dip?  While the dishes may be different there is often an undercurrent flavor that prevails.  A good southwestern chili powder is undoubtedly a must-have spice blend for a happy home.

I have a very busy schedule – five kids at home with sports, activities, parent meetings, our farm, now our big remodel – not to mention this little ole blog.  When people tell me it must be nice to work from home, I have a hard time suppressing an uncomfortable laugh.  I am overbooked.  The appearance of flexibility and a poor “no” reflex has me really jumping through hoops (did I really just accidentally volunteer myself to coordinate the food for the high school banquet auction???) to make it all happen.  I need simple and fast meals for these busy fall weeknights.  So, here is my southwestern chili powder to save the day.  This versatile spice blend is the perfect flavoring for taco/fajita meat, homemade refried beans, carne asada style grilled beef, as well as various soups, stews, dips, and sauces.  And everybody likes it.

My nitty gritty interpretation of southwestern chili powder utilizes paprika (smoked and plain), garlic, oregano, cumin, coriander, and cayenne.  It is a little bit smoky, a little bit spicy, and a lot bit awesome.  So awesome the blend rarely gets put away.   It just sits near the stove to spice up the next batch of scrambled eggs or whatever may be in the skillet.  Make yourself a batch of the southwestern chili powder and another batch or two to jar up for holiday gifts!

Looking for more spice blends? How about herbs de Provence?

Southwestern Chili Powder Recipe