How to Dehydrate Chili Peppers to Make Chili Powder - Recipe Method
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
5 hrs
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Total Time
5 hrs 10 mins
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Servings
10
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Calories
14 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
How to Dehydrate Chili Peppers to Make Chili Powder - Recipe Method
Description
To make chili powder from fresh chili peppers, select fresh, firm peppers without signs of rot. Clean them well and remove stems. Thicker peppers can be sliced to increase drying speed, while thinner ones may be left whole. Distribute the peppers evenly on dehydrator trays to allow uniform airflow and drying.
The dehydrator is set around 135-140°F (or the recommended setting) and runs for several hours, often overnight, until the peppers become dry and brittle. The drying time depends on pepper thickness and quantity. Once thoroughly dried, the peppers are ground into powder using a spice grinder, yielding flavorful chili powder that can be stored in dark containers away from light for freshness.
Wearing gloves is important when handling peppers to avoid skin irritation from their oils. Using a dehydrator in ventilated spaces like a garage prevents odor buildup. This method offers control over spice levels and freshness compared to store-bought powders.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Chili pepper fresh pods
Instructions
- Wash and dry your chili peppers. Choose only fresh peppers. If they show any signs of rotting, throw them away.
- Wearing gloves, remove the stems and slice the thicker peppers into rings and thinner peppers in half. Leave them whole if you prefer, but they will take much longer to dehydrate. SEE NOTES.
- Place the peppers on the trays of the dehydrator. Spread them out evenly so the heat can distribute properly.
- Turn on the dehydrator at 135-140 degrees F, or whatever setting your dehydrator recommends.
- Once they are dried, remove and grind them with a spice grinder until they are a fine powder. Store the powders in baggies or containers, or use as you wish. Keep them in a dark place, like your pantry, for freshness.
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling chili peppers to prevent skin irritation from oils.
- Dried weight from 1 pound fresh peppers is about 4 ounces; powdered yield is roughly 3/4 cup.
- Drying times vary from 5 hours to overnight depending on pepper thickness and quantity.
- Place dehydrator in a ventilated area due to strong odors released during drying.
- Grinding dried peppers yields fresh chili powder best stored in a dark pantry for longevity.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 10Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 14 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 14kcal | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1% |
| Sodium | 4mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 138mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 425IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 20.4mg | 23% |
| Calcium | 5mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.4mg | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.