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Paleo Chilli Seasoning Mix (Homemade)

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

Slow Cooked Chicken Livers with Cayenne & Paprika

After finally acting on my resolution to use more offal in my cooking, I went to the butcher and purchased some chicken livers (along with some other interesting-looking cuts, which I’m sure you’ll read about soon!). Initially, my first attempt was pretty unsuccessful; the meat turned out tough. Although the flavour was good, it felt like it hadn't quite reached its potential. Therefore, I decided that next time, I would cook them much more slowly to ensure they are ultra-tender and full of rich flavour. Consequently, I paired them with the smoky and pungent flavours of paprika and cayenne, which turned out to be a match made in heaven in these slow-cooked chicken livers.

Slow Cooked Chicken Livers with Cayenne and Paprika paleo diet recipe offal organ meat nutrition primal
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5 from 1 vote

Slow Cooked Chicken Livers with Cayenne and Paprika

Slow Cooked Chicken Livers with Cayenne and Paprika is a delicious and nutritious dish, perfect for those looking to incorporate more offal into their diet. This recipe features tender chicken livers simmered in a smoky, spicy sauce, creating a rich and flavorful meal that's both paleo and satisfying.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time2 hours 10 minutes
Total Time2 hours 25 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Paleo
Keyword: cayenne and paprika livers, chicken liver recipe, healthy offal recipe, paleo chicken livers, Slow cooked chicken livers
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 250kcal
Cost: $12

Equipment

  • Heavy-based frying pan

Ingredients

  • 750 g organic free-range chicken livers
  • 2 large onions peeled and finely chopped
  • 2 red peppers deseeded and chopped into slices
  • 1 tbsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 200 ml tomato passata
  • Olive oil
  • Sea salt and black pepper

Instructions

  • Trim and Cut: Firstly, cut any stringy bits away from the livers, then cut them into strips. This helps ensure even cooking and tender results.
  • Brown the Livers: Then, heat a little olive oil in a heavy-based frying pan over high heat. Add the chicken livers and brown them by cooking for 2 minutes on each side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  • Sauté the Onions: Next, lower the heat to medium, add a little more olive oil, and then add the chopped onions. Fry until softened, which should take about 5 minutes.
  • Add Spices: Then, add the sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the onions. Fry gently for another couple of minutes to release their flavours.
  • Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the tomato passata and about 200ml of water. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Combine and Simmer: Return the browned chicken livers to the pan along with the sliced red peppers. Lower the heat to its lowest setting, stir well, and leave to simmer very gently for around 2 hours.
  • Monitor and Adjust: Check occasionally, adding more water if needed to keep the mixture from drying out. This slow cooking process ensures the livers remain tender and absorb the rich flavours of the sauce.
  • Season and Serve: Once cooked, season to taste with a little sea salt and black pepper. Serve hot, perhaps with a side of cauliflower rice or a fresh green salad.

This slow-cooked chicken liver recipe, with its smoky and spicy sauce, is sure to impress and satisfy. The tender livers and rich flavours make it a perfect dish for those who enjoy offal or are looking to incorporate more nutritious organ meats into their diet.

Have you tried cooking with chicken livers before? If so, share your experiences and favourite recipes in the comments below. Additionally, don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious Paleo recipes and healthy eating tips. Enjoy your slow-cooked chicken livers with cayenne and paprika!

Why Eat Chicken Livers?

Chicken livers are one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can include in a Paleo diet. They’re packed with iron, vitamin A, B12, folate, and high-quality protein — all of which play vital roles in energy, immunity, and overall vitality. In traditional diets, organ meats were always prized, yet in modern Western culture, they’ve fallen out of favour. Cooking livers slowly and flavourfully is a great way to bring this superfood back into your weekly rotation.

Getting the Texture Right

If you’ve ever been put off chicken livers because they were dry or rubbery, it’s likely they were overcooked or cooked too quickly. Liver is delicate and benefits from either a quick flash fry or a long, slow cook. This recipe uses the latter approach, gently braising the livers in a flavourful blend of herbs and spices. The result? Silky, tender livers that soak up the smoky heat of paprika and cayenne, with none of the bitterness often associated with offal.

Spice Pairings: Why Paprika and Cayenne Work

Paprika, especially smoked varieties, adds a warm, earthy depth that beautifully complements the richness of chicken liver. Cayenne, on the other hand, brings a subtle kick that lifts the dish without overwhelming it. Together, they create a bold, well-balanced flavour profile that transforms the humble liver into something far more elevated. You can adjust the quantity to your taste — this dish can be as mild or as fiery as you like.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Livers

  • Trim carefully: Remove any visible sinew or greenish parts before cooking. This improves both flavour and texture.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear in batches if needed to prevent steaming and ensure good caramelisation before slow cooking.
  • Use bone broth: For an added nutrient boost and deeper flavour, deglaze with homemade chicken or beef stock instead of water.
  • Cook low and slow: Once the spices and liquid are added, allow plenty of time for the dish to simmer gently. This ensures the livers become tender and flavourful.

What to Serve With Chicken Livers

This dish pairs beautifully with several Paleo-friendly sides. Some of my favourites include:

  • Cauliflower mash: Creamy and comforting, a perfect contrast to the richness of the livers.
  • Sweet potato wedges: The natural sweetness balances the spice and adds lovely colour.
  • Steamed greens: Think broccoli, kale, or spinach sautéed with garlic and lemon.
  • Zucchini noodles or roasted veg: These keep things light and absorb the sauce well.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Slow-cooked chicken livers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Livers don’t freeze particularly well, as the texture can become grainy upon thawing — so enjoy them fresh if possible.

Customise It Your Way

This is a versatile recipe that welcomes additions or substitutions:

  • Add onions or shallots for extra sweetness and body.
  • Stir in mushrooms or capsicum for more texture and colour.
  • Top with fresh herbs like parsley or coriander for a bright finish.
  • Use duck or lamb liver for a variation, adjusting cooking time as needed.

You can also mix in a little coconut cream or mashed avocado for added creaminess, especially if serving this to someone who’s new to offal.

Health Benefits of Including Offal in Your Diet

Organ meats like liver have long been called “nature’s multivitamin” for a reason. A single serving of chicken liver delivers more than your daily requirement for vitamin A and B12. It’s also high in choline, which supports brain function and metabolism. For those who follow a nutrient-focused Paleo approach, incorporating offal even once a week can have a significant impact on overall health.

Overcoming the ‘Offal’ Stigma

If you’re hesitant about eating offal, you’re not alone. Many people grew up avoiding organ meats due to texture, smell, or negative associations. However, when cooked correctly and paired with bold flavours, liver can be not only tolerable — but delicious. This recipe is a great gateway, offering a well-seasoned, tender introduction to offal that even sceptics might enjoy.

Give It a Try and Share Your Thoughts

This slow-cooked chicken liver recipe is one of those dishes that surprises you. Rich, comforting, and deeply nourishing, it transforms a misunderstood ingredient into something truly satisfying. Whether you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons, honour a nose-to-tail approach, or simply sneak more nutrients into your meals — this recipe is worth a try. Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you or if you have your own twist on offal dishes.

Slow Cooked Chicken Livers with Cayenne and Paprika paleo diet recipe offal organ meat nutrition primal