White chili powder is a spice blend made from ground chile peppers and other seasonings. It is used to add heat and flavor to foods, especially Tex-Mex and Southwestern style dishes. White chili powder gets its name from its light color, as opposed to traditional red chili powder. Keep reading to learn more about this versatile spice.
What are the Origins of White Chili Powder?
White chili powder originated in the American Southwest, specifically Texas. It was developed as a variation on traditional red chili powder which gets its color from red chile peppers. White chili powder is made using dried white chile peppers, along with other spices.
Some of the earliest recorded recipes for white chili date back to the 1940s in Texas. The Fabiola Beans recipe by Corinne S. Park published in 1947 calls for “white chili powder” among its ingredients. Over the years, white chili grew in popularity across the Southern United States.
Today, white chili powder can be found in major supermarkets across the country alongside other common spices. It is frequently used in Tex-Mex recipes like chili con carne, fajitas, tacos and more. The style has also expanded to become popular fare at restaurants nationwide.
What Types of Chile Peppers are Used?
White chili powder gets its distinctive color and flavor from using dried white chile peppers. Some common varieties include:
- Ancho chile – A mild, fruity and slightly sweet pepper commonly used in white chili.
- New Mexican chiles – Usually Hatch chiles. Can range from mild to very hot.
- Anaheim chiles – Mildly spicy with a touch of sweetness.
- Poblano chiles – Medium heat with rich flavor.
Using white chile peppers creates a chili powder with a flavor that is slightly sweeter and fruitier than traditional red chili powder. The heat level can range from mild to spicy depending on the types and ratios of chile peppers used.
What Other Ingredients are Included?
In addition to white chile peppers, white chili powder contains a blend of other herbs and spices. Common seasonings include:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Ground cumin
- Oregano
- Cilantro
- Salt
- Black pepper
- White pepper
The spice blend varies between brands, but these additions help complement the flavor of the chiles. Onion and garlic add savory depth, while cumin provides earthiness. Oregano and cilantro contribute herbal notes. Salt balances the flavors and black and white peppers provide subtle heat.
How is White Chili Powder Made?
To make homemade white chili powder, you first need to procure dried white chile peppers. Popular varieties like Anaheim, Hatch, ancho and poblano can often be found dried at ethnic grocers or online.
Once you have your assortment of chiles, they need to be cleaned of any stems or seeds, then thoroughly dried. Next, place the dried peppers into a food processor, blender or spice grinder. Pulse to a fine powdery texture.
You can then mix in any additional spices like cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt and pepper. For a balanced flavor profile, use about 2 parts white chile powder to 1 part of each additional spice.
Store the finished white chili powder in an airtight container away from heat, light and moisture. It will keep for 3-6 months before losing flavor and aroma. For a truly authentic flavor, it’s best to make your own blend at home.
How Hot is White Chili Powder?
The spiciness of white chili powder can range from mild to hot, around 500 to 2500 Scoville Heat Units. A Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) measures the concentration of capsaicin, the compound that gives chiles their heat.
For comparison:
| Pepper Type | Scoville Heat Units |
|---|---|
| Jalapeno | 2,500 – 8,000 SHU |
| Hatch chili | 1,000 – 2,000 SHU |
| Poblano | 1,000 – 2,000 SHU |
| Anaheim | 500 – 2,500 SHU |
| Ancho chile | 1,000 – 2,000 SHU |
As you can see, popular white chili peppers range from mildly spicy to moderately hot. By adjusting the ratios of different peppers or diluting with more mild seasonings, you can control the heat level of white chili powder.
How Does it Compare to Regular Chili Powder?
The main difference between white chili powder and regular chili powder is the peppers used. Traditional chili powder gets its deep reddish-brown color from red chili peppers like:
- Cayenne
- Guajillo
- Pasilla
- New Mexico red
- California red
The red chiles used in regular chili powder also tend to be spicier, often rated 5,000 – 30,000 SHU. So traditional chili powder has a deeper red hue and bolder, hotter flavor than white chili powder.
White chili powder is made with milder white chile peppers, so it has a lighter color and slightly more delicate flavor. It has notes of sweetness and fruitiness that you don’t get from the red peppers.
So while both add heat and flavor to dishes like chili, tacos, meats, stews and more, they do have subtle differences in taste and spice level.
What Does White Chili Powder Taste Like?
The flavor of white chili powder can vary slightly depending on the blend, but in general it tastes:
- Mildly to moderately spicy – Less hot than traditional red chili powder, ranging from a mild tingle to a moderate burn.
- Slightly sweet and fruity – The white chile peppers lend a hint of sweetness and fruitiness.
- Smoky and earthy – From the dried ground chiles and spices like cumin.
- Savory – Thanks to the garlic, onion and herb notes.
Many describe white chili powder as having a “lighter, cleaner” flavor than the bold red chili powder. The milder heat lets more of the complex flavor notes come through.
What Color is White Chili Powder?
As the name implies, white chili powder is much lighter in color than traditional red chili powder. However, it’s not a stark white, but rather an off-white beige or very light tan.
This pale color comes from using dried white chile peppers like Anaheim, Hatch, ancho and poblano. Even when dried and ground down, they maintain a light hue.
There can be some variation batch to batch, but a very light, pale tan or beige is the typical color you can expect from white chili powder.
Is it the Same as Chili Powder?
White chili powder and regular chili powder are similar in that they both provide a spicy kick of flavor. However, they are made from different types of chile peppers which gives each blend its unique taste and color.
The main differences between white and regular chili powder are:
- White chili powder uses dried white chile peppers, resulting in its pale color.
- Regular chili powder uses dried red chile peppers, giving it a vivid reddish hue.
- White chili powder has a milder, more delicate heat and flavor.
- Regular chili powder is spicier and bolder tasting.
While they are both called “chili powder,” it’s important to note that white and regular chili powder are not interchangeable in recipes, due to their distinct flavors. Be sure to use the specified type of chili powder called for.
What Dishes Use White Chili Powder?
Here are some popular savory dishes that benefit from the flavor of white chili powder:
- Chili – Of course, white chili powder is often used in namesake white chili.
- Fajitas – Sprinkled on sautéed meat and veggies.
- Tacos – Added to meat fillings or sprinkle on fish tacos.
- Chili con carne – White chili powder flavors the meat and sauce.
- Taco salad – Top salads with a dash of white chili powder.
- Quesadillas – Mix into the cheese filling for extra heat.
- Guacamole – Stir some white chili powder into fresh guacamole.
- Southwestern pizza – Sprinkle over veggie or chicken pizza.
For most recipes, start with 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon white chili powder per serving. Adjust to taste, adding more or less depending on how much heat you prefer. The flavor pairs well with chicken, beef, pork, veggies, beans, rice, cheese and more.
What are Substitutes for White Chili Powder?
If you don’t have white chili powder, suitable substitutions include:
- Traditional red chili powder – Use half the amount and expect a spicier dish.
- Paprika – Adds flavor without the heat.
- Ground white or black pepper – Imparts some heat.
- Cayenne pepper – Much spicier but provides heat.
- Individual dried white chile peppers – Like ancho or Anaheim, ground or crumbled.
Make sure to adjust any substitution to your taste, as the flavor won’t be exactly the same as white chili powder. For best results, try to use regular chili powder or a blend of mild dried chiles if possible.
Where to Buy White Chili Powder
White chili powder has become more widely available and can be found at most major supermarkets alongside regular chili powder and other spices. Look for it in the spice aisle or with the Mexican and Tex-Mex ingredients.
Some stores that carry white chili powder include:
- Walmart
- Target
- Kroger
- Publix
- Safeway
- Trader Joe’s
- Cost Plus World Market
Major spice brands like McCormick and Spice Islands also produce white chili powder that you’re likely to find at the grocery store.
You can also find it at natural food stores, Latin markets, or order specialty chili powders online. Purchasing whole dried white chile peppers allows you to make your own at home, too.
How to Store White Chili Powder
To maintain the best flavor and shelf life, store white chili powder properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from light and heat. Keep it somewhere like a kitchen cabinet, not next to the stove or oven.
Kept sealed in the right conditions, white chili powder will remain fresh for up to:
- 3-4 years for commercially packaged powder
- 6-12 months for homemade powder
Over time, the oils in the chili powder can go rancid or the spices can lose their pungency. If the color fades or the aroma seems stale, it’s time to discard and replace your white chili powder.
For maximum freshness, store white chili powder in the refrigerator and try to use within 4-6 months.
Popular Brands of White Chili Powder
Some top brands of pre-made white chili powder include:
- McCormick – A widely available and affordable option.
- Spice Islands – Known for their quality spice blends.
- Penzey’s – Specialty spice retailer with chili powders.
- Frontier Co-Op – A favorite for organic spices.
- Savory Spice – Great for custom spice blends.
There are also many boutique chili powder producers, especially in the American Southwest. Buying from a local spice shop can provide an extra authentic flavor.
For peak freshness and flavor control, consider making your own white chili powder blend at home with dried chiles and your choice of spices.
Is White Chili Powder Healthy?
White chili powder is relatively healthy, providing some benefits when used to flavor dishes. Some positives include:
- Antioxidants – White chiles contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and cell damage.
- Vitamins – It provides small amounts of vitamins A, E, B6, iron, potassium and magnesium.
- No fat or sugar – Just spices, so it’s low calorie and low carb.
- Sodium-free – Unless salt is added to the blend.
When used to flavor wholesome dishes, white chili powder can be part of an overall healthy diet. It provides a flavor boost without added fat, sugar or calories. As with anything, enjoy in moderation.
Is it Gluten-Free?
Most white chili powder is gluten-free, since it contains no wheat, barley or rye ingredients. It’s simply made up of ground chile peppers and complimentary spices.
However, always check labels to confirm the chili powder you’re using is certified gluten-free. Some less common additions like oats, wheat flour or maltodextrin could contain traces of gluten.
As long as you verify gluten-free status and avoid cross-contamination when handling, white chili powder can be safely consumed on a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
White chili powder brings a mild heat and nuanced flavor to spice up Tex-Mex and Southwestern cuisine. Made from a blend of dried white chile peppers and complementary spices, it has a lighter, sweeter taste than traditional red chili powder.
Add white chili powder to chili, tacos, fajitas, guacamole, pizza and more to give dishes a flavorful kick. Store it properly in a cool, dry place and it will keep its freshness for months to come.
With its versatility and milder heat, white chili powder is a great way to add some zing to all types of savory recipes.