Chili powder and garlic can be combined together in various recipes to enhance the flavor of the dish. The combination of chili powder and garlic adds a savory and slightly spicy kick to many recipes, particularly those featuring meat or vegetables. It is a common pairing in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, as well as many other international dishes.
Below we’ll discuss dishes that combine chili powder and garlic and also how they compare to one another.
Dishes That Combine Chili Powder And Garlic
Chili powder and garlic are a popular flavor combination that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some examples:
- Garlic shrimp: Sauté peeled and deveined shrimp in butter and minced garlic, then sprinkle with chili powder for a spicy kick. We’ll include a sample recipe below to get you started.
- Chili con carne: This classic Tex-Mex dish features ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and spices, including chili powder and garlic. The garlic adds depth and richness to the chili, while the chili powder provides heat and flavor.
- Roasted vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables with olive oil, chili powder, garlic, and salt, then roast them in the oven for a delicious and easy side dish.
- Garlic chicken: Season chicken thighs or breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, and salt, then bake or grill until cooked through.
- Garlic bread: Mix together butter, minced garlic, chili powder, and salt, then spread on sliced bread and bake until golden brown.
These are just a few examples, but the possibilities are endless. Chili powder and garlic are versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of cuisines and dishes.
Chili Powder And Garlic Comparison
| Chili Powder | Garlic | |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | A blend of spices typically made with ground dried chili peppers, cumin, garlic, oregano, and paprika. It has a slightly spicy, earthy, and smoky flavor. | A pungent and slightly sweet herb with a mild, nutty flavor. |
| Health Benefits | Contains capsaicin, a compound that may aid in weight loss, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation. It may also lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. | Contains allicin, a compound that may help reduce the risk of heart disease, lower cholesterol levels, and boost the immune system. It may also have anti-cancer properties. |
| Foods to Use With | Often used on meats, poultry, and vegetables. It is commonly found in Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine. | Often used in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisine. It is commonly used on meats, vegetables, and in soups and stews. |
Spicy Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Here is a simple recipe to combine chili powder and garlic to get you started:
Spicy Garlic Shrimp Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle the olive oil mixture over the shrimp and toss to coat.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve with lemon wedges.
Final Thoughts
Chili powder and garlic are both versatile ingredients that can add depth and flavor to a variety of dishes. While chili powder is often used in Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine, garlic is more commonly used in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisine.
Garlic and onion is also a popular combo if you like the taste of garlic in your foods.
Both ingredients have health benefits and can be used on meats, poultry, and vegetables. Some dishes that combine chili powder and garlic include chili con carne, tacos, and fajitas.