Top Ten Spices For A Flavorful Chili

If our country's obsession with the famous chili cook-off is any indication, chili is one of the all-time great comfort foods. Perfect for potlucks and cookouts, this dish knows no season. Whether it's a game day staple or just something warm and hearty for a cold winters night, every cook needs a go-to chili recipe.

The beauty of chili is its versatility, adapting to whatever tastes or dietary needs you may have. You have the flexibility to use your favorite combination of peppers, onions and tomatoes. Throwing in red or black beans and mushrooms round out the main ingredients for a vegetarian palate. For chili con carne (with meat), swap ground turkey or chicken for beef for a more heart-healthy option. Even ground lamb makes a tasty alternative.

You can have the freshest, most flavorful ingredients, but your spices can make or break your recipe. Naturally, you'll need salt and black pepper to taste, but you need something more complex to make a satisfying chili. Layer the flavors. Here are some essential spices every chili cook should have on hand.

1. Chili Powder: It may seem like a given, but starting with a good basic chili powder is necessary to the foundation of your flavor combination. Whether you want five alarm chili or just a little kick, this is where the fire starts.
2. Cayenne Pepper: This will step up your fire power to the next level. Use a cautious hand at first until you determine just how much burn you can take.
3. Cumin: For a touch of warmth and a whole lot of depth, cumin is the way to go. This can be as crucial for a good base as your chili powder.
4. Coriander: Mild and lemony, coriander pairs well with most any meat you could use in chili.
5. Garlic: Use fresh or powdered for the full flavor, or garlic salt as a salt alternative if you're trying to watch your sodium intake.
6. Cilantro: After all your red hot peppers, you need some cool greens to balance things out. Cilantro has a nice crisp edge that can take the bite out of some of the burn.
7. Oregano: Its floral, peppery scent and flavor fill that middle ground between the heat of the peppers and the coolness of the cilantro.
8. Tarragon: This herb provides a good earthy base for your green flavors with just a hint of sage.
9. Crushed Red Pepper: Not only does this give you chili a little extra kick, it also adds to the texture.
10. Paprika: Don't be fooled into think this isn't a chili spice. Its sweet, smoky flavor is a great compliment to your warmer spices.

It's not necessary to use all these spices together, though it does make for a very flavorful chili when they've been slow-cooked and given a chance to blend with the other ingredients. These spices are very aromatic so let your nose be your guide and don't be afraid to try a different combination. Pair your chili with shredded cheese and fresh cornbread or serve it over brown rice for a hearty, filling meal that's sure to please. 

Pauline Greenwood is an avid blogger and contributor to JustaPinch.com. She enjoys sharing about cooking experiences and her favorite meal ideas such as chicken enchilada recipes.