Chipotle seasoning recipe. A flavorful blend made with ground chipotle peppers, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and Mexican oregano. The distinctive smoky, mildly spicy flavor works beautifully on chicken, meat, vegetables, tacos, burrito bowls, and more. The best part? It only takes just a few minutes to make this homemade version. Obviously, it’s the smoky spice blend worth keeping in your pantry. I’ll walk you through what this seasoning is, what goes into a homemade blend, how to make it from scratch, its heat level, and some of my favorite ways to use it.
Why I Love This Versatile Seasoning
I started making my own seasonings just because I wanted a versatile blend that’s apt for everyday meals without reaching for a long list of individual spices. Basically, this spice blend is built around ground chipotle peppers, which are smoked, dried jalapeno peppers. Unlike basic chili powder, it tends to have a more pronounced smoky character. The exact ingredients also vary from one recipe to another. For a homemade version, I prefer keeping the ingredient list relatively straightforward. In my kitchen, I think of this blend less as a Mexican spice mix, and more as a smoky, all-purpose seasoning.
Making the seasoning at home gives you more control over the final flavor. You can adjust the heat level, use fresher spices, and make a small batch whenever you need it. Certainly, store bought is convenient, however, the homemade version is inexpensive and takes only a few minutes to prepare. Ground chipotle is the main ingredient in chipotle seasoning, but if it’s not easily available, use smoked paprika and cayenne pepper in 1:1 ratio.
Key Ingredients In Homemade Chipotle Seasoning
- Ground chipotle - The main ingredient.
- Spices - Cumin, coriander, black pepper.
- Aromatics - onion powder, garlic powder.
- Herbs - Use Mexican oregano if available.
How To Make Chipotle Seasoning
Step One: Measure the spices
Add all the ground spices alongside onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano to a bowl. Use level measuring spoons for consistent results.
Step Two: Mix the seasoning
Whisk the ground spices together. Make sure they are evenly distributed and there are no visible clumps.
Step Three: Taste and adjust
Taste a very small amount of the seasoning and adjust the taste according to your preference. Add chipotle for extra heat.
Step Four: Store
Transfer the spice mix to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dark cupboard away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture.
Tips For Making Better Chipotle Seasoning
- Use fresh spices - Old ground spices can make the entire blend taste flat.
- Don’t overdo cumin - Too much cumin can dominate the blend.
- Adjust the heat - The recipe is a starting point, increase or decrease the amount of ground chipotle according to your preference.
- Make small batches - Fresh mixed spices are more aromatic.
Chipotle Seasoning Recipe - Easy Homemade Spice Blend
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon ground chipotle, see notes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano, see notes
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar, optional
Instructions
- Combine together chipotle, cumin, coriander, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
- Store the spice blend in an airtight container away from direct sunlight.
- This spice mix is the right amount for approximately 700g chicken.
Notes
- Ground chipotle - If not easily available, substitute with ½ tablespoon smoked paprika and ½ tablespoon cayenne pepper.
- Mexican oregano - I have used regular dried oregano in this recipe.
Nutrition
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Homemade Chipotle Seasoning FAQs
What is chipotle seasoning made of?
The spice mix is typically made with ground chipotle peppers and complementary spices like cumin, coriander, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Is chipotle seasoning spicy?
Yes, it is moderately spicy because chipotle peppers are smoked, dried jalapeños. Add more or less ground chipotle to adjust the heat level.
What can I use chipotle seasoning on?
You can use chipotle seasoning in a variety of dishes made with chicken, lamb, beef, pork, fish, eggs, vegetables, tacos, burrito bowls, and more.
How much chipotle seasoning should I use?
Use the recipe as a starting point, which can be used for 700 g chicken or meat. For vegetables, begin with 1 to 2 teaspoons per 500 grams, and add more if required.
Can I make chipotle seasoning less spicy?
Yes. Reduce the amount of ground chipotle in the spice blend.
Is chipotle seasoning the same as taco seasoning?
No. Taco seasoning is a broader spice blend designed specifically for tacos and similar dishes, while chipotle seasoning relies on the smoky flavor and heat of chipotle peppers.
What is the best way to store chipotle seasoning?
Store in a small spice jar or airtight container in a cool, dark place. Keep it away from moisture and direct heat, particularly the area immediately above a stove.
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