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chili seasoning mix powder recipe paleo herbs spices primal how to rub

Paleo Chilli Seasoning Mix (Homemade)

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What to do with used glass jars and bottles? How about making up this Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix to give for gifts, or to keep in your own pantry. Stored in a cool dry place, these should last for up to six months.

The chili seasoning mixes in my local supermarket do contain the ingredients you’d expect, like paprika, chili, cumin, oregano, pepper and garlic, but they also contain “Spices” (why not specify which spices? Seems a bit suspicious to me) and “Anti-caking Agent (551)”. Well, I don’t know about you, but I’d rather not consume anti-caking agent.

As well as using better ingredients, it’s also far cheaper to make your own and you can experiment to find your favourite blend.

I’m growing a few different types of pepper in my veggie bed, so when these are ready, I’ll be dehydrating them and adding them to this recipe. In the meantime, I buy ready dried peppers. I’ve got an Indian shop and a much larger Asian supermarket near me, so I tend to try this with a few different varieties of chili peppers. I’ve seen so many varieties – Cayenne, Serrano, Cascabel, Habanero, Tabasco, Poblano, Guajillo, Jolokia, Chipotle, Ancho, Ayenne, Bullseye and Bullhorn – so see what’s available near you and try a few different blends.

chili seasoning mix powder recipe paleo herbs spices primal how to rub
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5 from 1 vote

Recipe: Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix

This Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix is an easy and economical way to add flavour to your dishes. Free from additives and anti-caking agents, it’s a perfect Paleo blend that can be customized with your favorite dried peppers. Store in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Condiments, Sauces
Cuisine: Mexican, Paleo
Keyword: DIY Spice Blend, Healthy Seasoning, Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix, Paleo Chili Mix
Servings: 1 cup
Calories: 20kcal
Cost: $5

Equipment

  • Hot pan
  • Pestle and mortar (or blender)
  • Airtight container

Ingredients

  • 6-8 whole dried peppers of your choice
  • 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon oregeno
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked

Instructions

  • Toast the Peppers: First, in a hot pan, toast the chili peppers for a few minutes, taking care not to allow them to burn. When the smell starts to release, remove them from the pan and allow them to cool.
  • Toast the Cumin Seeds: Next, toast the cumin seeds in the same pan, stirring constantly to ensure they don’t burn.
  • Remove Seeds: Remove the seeds from the chili peppers to be used in another recipe. If you want your seasoning extra hot, you may like to add in a few of these seeds.
  • Grind the Ingredients: With a pestle and mortar (or a blender), grind up the chili peppers and cumin seeds into a powder.
  • Mix Ingredients: Add in the garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly to combine.
  • Store: Make sure you store the seasoning mix in an airtight container (like a jar) to keep it dry. Shake the container before using to ensure it is thoroughly mixed.

Why Make Your Own Chili Seasoning?

Making your own chili seasoning puts you in complete control of the ingredients and flavour. You avoid preservatives, fillers, and mysterious “natural flavours” that often sneak into commercial spice blends. It’s especially important for those following a Paleo lifestyle, where clean eating is a priority.

By custom blending your own mix, you can control the heat level, the complexity, and even the freshness. Once you’ve made it, you’ll wonder why you ever bought pre-made versions in the first place.

What’s Wrong with Store-Bought Blends?

Most supermarket chili seasoning mixes include ingredients that go beyond herbs and spices. Anti-caking agents like silicon dioxide (551) are added to keep the mix free-flowing, but they serve no nutritional purpose and are unnecessary for a homemade blend stored correctly.

Store-bought mixes also often contain added sugars, MSG, and highly refined seed oils – all of which are far from Paleo-approved. The ambiguous ingredient “spices” is another red flag. Without clear labelling, it’s impossible to know exactly what’s in your seasoning.

Choosing Your Chili Peppers

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s totally customisable. You can go mild, medium, or fire-breathing dragon – it’s entirely up to you. Here are a few commonly available chili varieties and how they impact your mix:

  • Cayenne: Classic heat and bright red colour. A staple in most chili blends.
  • Chipotle: Smoked and dried jalapeño, giving a deep, smoky flavour.
  • Guajillo: Mild heat with fruity undertones. Pairs beautifully with cumin.
  • Habanero: Intense heat with a floral, slightly fruity flavour. Use sparingly.
  • Jolokia (Ghost Pepper): Not for the faint-hearted. Only include if you love extreme heat.

Start with a small batch and write down your measurements, so when you find your perfect balance, you can recreate it. Don’t be afraid to toast the dried chilis lightly in a dry pan to enhance their flavour before grinding.

How to Store Homemade Chili Seasoning

Once you’ve made your mix, keep it in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, it should retain its potency for up to six months. If you make a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller jars so you're not exposing the whole batch to air each time you use it.

Repurposing small glass jars from mustard, jam or baby food is a sustainable and budget-friendly way to store your seasoning. Label each jar with the date and type of chili used so you can keep track of what works best for your taste preferences.

Gifting Your Chili Mix

This seasoning mix makes a thoughtful and personalised gift for friends and family – especially those who appreciate food or are on a health journey. Fill a small glass jar, add a rustic tag with the ingredients and suggestions for use, and you’ve got a creative and practical present. Tie with some twine or pop it in a small gift box for that extra touch.

Pair it with other homemade items like infused olive oils, Paleo crackers or a handwritten recipe for chili con carne for a lovely gift set. It’s an especially good idea around Christmas or as a housewarming present.

How to Use Homemade Chili Seasoning

This seasoning mix is incredibly versatile. Use it in:

  • Chili con carne or bean-free Paleo chili
  • Slow-cooked pulled pork or beef
  • Dry rubs for barbecued or grilled meats
  • Roasted vegetable trays
  • Paleo taco mince or meatballs
  • Homemade dips and salsas

Sprinkle it into soups and stews, or use it to spice up scrambled eggs, cauliflower rice, or roast chicken. It can also be mixed with coconut oil or olive oil to make a paste for marinating proteins.

Adjusting the Heat and Flavour

Everyone has a different tolerance for chili. The great thing about this recipe is that it’s easy to tweak. If you’re unsure, start with a lower amount of chili powder and increase slowly. You can also blend in mild paprika for colour and depth without adding extra heat.

For a smokier version, add extra chipotle or smoked paprika. For something more herbaceous, increase the oregano and garlic. Once you’ve made a few versions, you’ll begin to craft your own signature blend.

Cooking in Bulk? Scale It Up

If you find yourself reaching for chili seasoning often, it makes sense to mix a big batch. The recipe can be scaled up easily by multiplying each spice quantity. Store in a large jar or divide into smaller jars for different heat levels or purposes (e.g., mild blend, spicy blend, smoky blend).

Staying Paleo with Homemade Seasonings

Creating this Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix is a fantastic way to ensure you always have a flavorful and healthy seasoning option on hand. By avoiding additives and using only the best ingredients, you can enhance your dishes while staying true to your Paleo lifestyle.

Many commercially available products sneak in ingredients that don’t fit into Paleo principles. By preparing your own pantry staples, you eliminate those risks and increase the nutritional quality of every meal.

Final Thoughts

This seasoning mix is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from chili and soups to grilled meats and roasted vegetables. Experiment with different types of peppers to find the perfect blend for your taste.

I hope you enjoy making and using this Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix. For more creative and healthy Paleo recipes, be sure to explore my blog. I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you made to the recipe, so please share in the comments below. Happy cooking and enjoy your seasoning mix!

chili seasoning mix powder recipe paleo herbs spices primal how to rub

Herbs Spices Seasoning Moisture Storing Clumping Caking the Paleo Network-min

How to Stop Herbs and Spices Clumping Together

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It can't just be me – I come to use a particular jar of dried herb, spice or seasoning, to find it completely stuck together and impossible to get out. It's so frustrating, and seems to be worse with onion and garlic powder, which always seem to cake soon after the containers are opened.

This happens when moisture and humidity get into the container causing it to clump together and form a rock. Whilst the moisture will reduce the flavour and strength of the herbs, a lot of them you can re-invigorate by removing the moisture. Far less wasteful than throwing unused herbs and spices away.

Herbs Spices Seasoning Moisture Storing Clumping Caking the Paleo Network-min

How to remove the moisture

The easiest way is in the oven. I heat my oven to about 125C (250F) and use a metal skewer to get break the clump (or in this case garlic powder) out of the container, onto a sheet of baking paper, on a baking tray.

After just a couple of minutes, the heat will have removed the moisture, and I remove the tray and allow it to cool. Once cooled, I transfer it back into the container using a funnel and it now dispenses freely!

To prevent it happening again

Make sure the containers you store your dried herbs,spices and seasonings in are completely air-tight and always shut the lid/ close the container properly. Storing somewhere cool and dark (or even in the freezer!) will also help prevent moisture coming into contact with the inside of the container.

Avoid the temptation to shake the container directly into a pot of steaming food – this will allow moisture in. Spoon what you need out of the container, away from the stove top.

You can also add some dried beans or rice to the container to absorb any moisture and prevent the mixture from clumping.

Storing the containers upside down will also help prevent air getting in, making them last longer.

Why Some Spices Are More Prone to Clumping

Not all herbs and spices react the same way when exposed to moisture. Fine powders like onion powder, garlic powder, cinnamon, and ground ginger tend to absorb moisture far more quickly than coarser blends. This is because the finer the grind, the greater the surface area exposed to the air. Seasonings that contain natural sugars, like onion and garlic powder, are even more susceptible as sugar attracts and holds onto moisture. Blends with added salt can also clump faster, especially if the salt used is unrefined and retains trace minerals.

The Impact of Humidity in Australian Kitchens

Here in Australia, particularly in coastal or tropical regions, humidity plays a major role in spice spoilage. Even when your kitchen feels dry, the ambient moisture in the air can still creep into containers if they’re not properly sealed. During summer, when humidity levels peak and windows are more likely to be open, your spice rack can become a hotspot for clumping. Using a dehumidifier in your pantry or switching to moisture-resistant storage solutions can make a big difference in maintaining spice quality year-round.

How Long Do Herbs and Spices Actually Last?

While dried herbs and spices don’t necessarily “go off” like fresh produce, they do lose potency over time. Most ground spices stay fresh for around 6 months to a year, while whole spices can last up to 2 or 3 years when stored correctly. The issue with clumping is that it often signals early degradation caused by moisture, which speeds up flavour loss. If a spice no longer smells fragrant or tastes sharp, it’s probably time to replace it — regardless of its expiry date.

Reviving Clumped Spices Without Heat

If you don’t want to use your oven, there are a few gentler ways to rescue stuck-together spices:

  • Use a blender or spice grinder: Transfer the clumped spice to a grinder or mini blender and pulse it back into a fine powder. Make sure the appliance is completely dry before use.
  • Microwave method: Place the spice on a paper towel and microwave it in 10-second bursts. Stir between each burst and stop once the mixture is dry and loose again.
  • Silica gel packs: Place a food-safe silica packet in your spice container to draw out moisture without the need for heat.

Choose the Right Storage Containers

The type of container you use has a huge impact on spice longevity. Glass jars with rubber-sealed lids are ideal, as they create a tight barrier against air and humidity. Avoid plastic containers with ill-fitting lids, as they allow moisture to seep in slowly over time. Dark or amber glass jars can also protect the spices from light exposure, which breaks down essential oils and dulls the flavour. If you're decanting bulk spices, label them with the purchase date so you can keep track of their age.

Best Practices for Refilling Spice Jars

When refilling your spice containers, avoid topping up old spices with new ones. It’s better to wash and dry the container completely before adding fresh product. Mixing old and new spices dilutes the flavour and increases the chances of contamination. Allow jars to air dry thoroughly before use to avoid trapping any residual moisture inside. This one small step helps keep your spices potent and clump-free for longer.

Bulk Buying Tips for Paleo Cooks

Buying spices in bulk can be cost-effective, but it does increase the risk of spoilage if you don’t store them correctly. Consider dividing bulk quantities into smaller airtight containers and storing the extras in the freezer or back of the pantry until needed. Only keep a small working jar in your spice rack, and refill as needed. This method also helps minimise exposure to light and heat — both of which degrade essential oils in spices, making them less effective in your cooking.

When to Replace Spices Entirely

Sometimes, no matter what you try, a spice just won’t revive. If it smells faint, looks faded, or tastes flat even after drying and grinding, it’s probably beyond saving. A spice that has turned musty or sour in scent may have absorbed too much moisture or begun to spoil. In these cases, it’s safer and more effective to replace it. Fresh, vibrant herbs and spices are crucial for paleo recipes where seasoning and wholefood flavours do the heavy lifting.

Simple Paleo Spice Blends to Make at Home

One of the best ways to ensure your spices stay fresh is to make your own blends in small batches. Here are a few paleo-friendly mixes that are easy to prepare and less likely to clump when stored correctly:

  • Simple Meat Rub: Paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
  • Herbed Roast Mix: Dried thyme, rosemary, sage, onion powder, and cracked black pepper.
  • Curry Base Blend: Turmeric, ground coriander, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and fenugreek.

Mix only what you need and store in small, airtight jars in a dark, cool cupboard. This way, you're always using fresh, fragrant blends that bring out the best in your paleo meals.

Stay One Step Ahead of Clumping

With just a few simple adjustments, you can dramatically reduce spice waste in your paleo kitchen. Whether it's storing containers upside down, adding moisture absorbers, or transferring clumped powders into the oven for revival, the key is prevention. Keep your herbs and spices dry, cool, and well-sealed — and you’ll never have to chip away at a garlic powder boulder again. A little care goes a long way toward keeping your cooking full of flavour and your ingredients as vibrant as your lifestyle.

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Where Do You Get Your Paleo Supplies From?

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Whilst the main elements of a Paleo diet are fresh, local and seasonal – such as meat and vegetables, there are a few important ingredients and supplies that aren’t so easy to find. I used to get these items from health food shops, but I found they could be really expensive, there wasn't much choice – and they were heavy to carry home!

I now do the non-fresh part of my Paleo shopping almost all online. My favourite supplier is iherb, as I've found them to be the cheapest, they have a large range – and they deliver Worldwide (even to Australia!) quickly and cheaply.

Iherb have just reduced their delivery charge to Australia – it’s now only $10 on orders over $60. They also offer $10 off your first order over $40 – or $5 discount on smaller orders. Definitely the cheapest way to stock up on Coconut Oil and fill your Paleo pantry!

These are the items on my non-fresh Paleo shopping list

Coconut Oil

No Paleo kitchen is complete without Coconut Oil! I go straight for the largest containers as it doesn't last long. I really like this huge container of Nutiva Extra Virgin Coconut Oil. I also have a smaller jar of Artisana Organic Extra Virgin Raw Coconut Oil in my pantry.

Coconut Aminos

I love Coconut Aminos and use it regularly, exactly as you might use Soy Sauce, for instance in sauces and to marinade meat.

Coconut Butter/ Manna

I first read about these products on US websites; but couldn't find them in Australian stores.

Paleo Baking

I've just got a new Paleo recipe book “Paleo Indulgences”, with lots of recipes for occasional treats and special occasions. Quite a few of the ingredients I didn't have, so I have just ordered from iherb.

Coconut Crystals

I've just ordered these Coconut Crystals as a few of the recipes call for them.

Coconut Nectar

Similarly a few recipes call for Coconut Nectar, so I'm eagerly awaiting delivery of these too

Arrowroot Starch

Coconut Flour

Almond Flour

Shredded Coconut

Coconut Flakes

Flax Meal

Hazelnut Flour

Sunflower Seed Butter

Almond Butter

Yeast

Salt

I tend alternate between Celtic sea salt and pink Himalayan sea salt.

Herbs and Spices

I also have to stock up on the herbs and spices that I use regularly in my cooking. I generally use a lot of turmeric, Parsley, Ginger, Nutmeg, garlic powder, curry powder, oregano, cumin, basil and cinnamon

Kelp Noodles

A recent addition to my cooking is kelp noodles as a great pasta alternative.

Supplements

Depending on time of the year and nutrition, there are a few supplements I sometimes take.

Vitamin D

Many of the Vitamin D3 capsules sold are in very small doses – instead of taking several, I prefer to take one capsule at a higher IU

Omega 3

Treats

After reading on so many American Paleo sites about Larabars, I've also tried some from iherb, for an occasional treat!

Toiletries

Other than food, I also order paraben-free shampoo online as many of the brands I find in shops locally have lots of undesirable ingredients.

Which non-fresh Paleo supplies do you regularly buy? Where do you source your Paleo supplies from? Are there any items you have trouble finding locally?

Stocking a Paleo Pantry in Australia: What to Buy & Where

If you're following a Paleo diet in Australia, you already know that sourcing fresh meat, seafood, and vegetables locally is relatively easy. But what about those harder-to-find Paleo pantry staples like arrowroot starch, coconut aminos, or almond flour? Finding affordable, high-quality options can be a challenge—especially when you're looking for organic, gluten-free, and additive-free products.

Buying Paleo Supplies Online vs In-Store

Local health food stores can be a great resource, but they're often limited in stock, pricey, or inconvenient. That’s why many Aussie Paleo enthusiasts turn to online suppliers for non-perishable items. Online stores often offer:

  • Greater variety, including international products not commonly found in Australia

  • Lower prices, especially when buying in bulk

  • Home delivery, which is a game-changer when you're ordering heavy items like coconut oil or flours

Best Paleo Online Stores for Aussies

  • iHerb – Offers a massive range of Paleo pantry items, personal care products, and supplements. Shipping to Australia is fast and affordable, and you’ll often find generous first-time buyer discounts.

  • Amazon Australia – More local sellers are joining the platform, which can be great for Paleo snacks, collagen, and natural toiletries.

  • Nourished Life – An Australian store that focuses on natural and toxin-free products, especially great for Paleo-friendly skincare and household items.

  • The Wholefood Collective – Aussie-based and focused on real food, organic, and bulk options.

  • Changing Habits – Another Australian supplier specialising in Paleo and wholefood lifestyle products.

Must-Have Paleo Pantry Staples

Here’s a quick list of Paleo essentials to keep stocked up—perfect for cooking, baking, and staying prepared:

  • Coconut oil – Look for organic, cold-pressed virgin varieties.

  • Coconut aminos – A soy sauce alternative that’s both gluten-free and Paleo-friendly.

  • Arrowroot starch & tapioca flour – Useful for thickening sauces and grain-free baking.

  • Almond, coconut, and hazelnut flours – Ideal for baking and creating gluten-free coatings.

  • Flax and chia seeds – For egg-free baking or boosting omega-3s.

  • Shredded coconut and flakes – Great for grain-free granola and treats.

  • Natural sweeteners – Such as coconut nectar, raw honey, or maple syrup (used sparingly).

  • Nutritional yeast & unrefined salt – For flavour and essential minerals.

  • Kelp noodles & cauliflower rice – Easy grain alternatives for quick meals.

  • Herbs and spices – Go for organic if possible. Staples include turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, paprika, ginger, garlic powder, and oregano.

  • Nut butters – Like almond or sunflower seed butter (check ingredients—should be 100% nuts).

  • Lacto-free or Paleo-approved supplements – Such as vitamin D3, magnesium, collagen, or omega-3s.

Pro Tips for Saving Money

  • Buy in bulk – Especially for pantry items that you use regularly (like flours or oils).

  • Check expiry dates – Bulk buys are only worthwhile if you’ll use them before they expire.

  • Split orders with a friend – You can both save on shipping and try more products.

  • Use loyalty or referral codes – Sites like iHerb often offer substantial discounts on your first few orders.

Final Thoughts

Creating a Paleo lifestyle that works for you in Australia means having a reliable supply of quality staples. With the convenience of online ordering and an ever-expanding list of local suppliers, it’s never been easier to keep your pantry stocked with everything you need—from coconut oil to collagen.