21 Best & Easy Substitutes for Spur chili | Ratios & Usage Tips

Everybody knows that chili is one of the most classic and versatile dishes around. However, despite its simplicity, sometimes you’re missing a key ingredient or two.

Whether you’re out of cumin, don’t have any fresh chili peppers, or just didn’t have time to soak the beans, don’t worry!

Here are some quick spur chili substitutes that can save you time and headaches in the kitchen.

So, let’s get started!

In short, "What can I use instead of spur chili?"

Chipotle Powder, Coriander, Garam Masala, Paprika, Curry Powder, Cayenne Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes, Ground Mustard, Oregano, Thyme, Cumin, Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika, Ancho Chili Powder, Chipotle Chili Powder, Taco Seasoning, Jalapeno Powder, Sriracha Sauce, Harissa Paste, Sambal Oelek, Gochujang.

What is spur chili, and what does spur chili taste like?

Spur chili is a kind of chili pepper that originates from the Southwestern United States. It is known for its heat, smokiness, and complexity of flavor.

The texture of spur chili peppers can range from thin-walled and waxy to dense with fleshy pulp. Spur chilis have a slightly sweet flavor with notes of citrus, cumin, oregano, and licorice. 

The heat level also varies depending on the variety; some are mild, while others are hot enough to make your eyes water!

Generally speaking, spur chili is spicier than other varieties of chilies. When used in cooking, it adds an intense kick that can really enhance the flavor profile of a dish.

For this reason, spur chili is a popular ingredient in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine.

To enjoy the full flavor of this chili pepper, it is best to purchase fresh peppers and roast them on an open flame or in an oven until they are charred.

The smoky charred skin can then be peeled off, and the flesh used as desired. Enjoy!

What are the uses of spur chili?

Spur chili peppers are a popular ingredient in many dishes, sauces, and seasoning blends. They have a unique heat that is quite different from most other chilis.

Their uses range from adding flavor to salsas and hot sauces to spicing up soups and stews. 

Additionally, spur chili peppers can be dried, smoked or cooked whole for added flavor to any dish.

They are also commonly used as a garnish on salads or tacos. The peppers can even be pickled for an added zing of flavor to sandwiches, burgers and wraps.

Spur chili peppers are also great for making homemade hot sauces with varying levels of spiciness, depending on preference.

Furthermore, they can be used in marinades for meats, fish, and vegetables to add an extra kick of flavor. 

They can be added to dips, spreads and dressings for a bit of heat as well.

Where to buy spur chili? 

There are a few different places you can go. Many specialty food stores carry it, as do some international grocery stores.

You can also order online from many retailers that provide a variety of diverse flavors and types of spur chili.

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Best Spur Chili Substitutes 

If you’re looking for a substitute for Spur Chili, you’re in luck. There are plenty of alternatives that can offer similar flavors and spiciness.

Here are the 22 best Spur Chili substitutes with proper measurements and uses to help you achieve that perfect taste in your dishes.

1. Chipotle Powder

chipotle powder is a good spur chili substitute

Chipotle Powder is one of my favorite substitutions. This smoky powder adds a deliciously flavorful kick to your chili.

Ratio or measurement: Substitute 2 teaspoons of chipotle powder for every tablespoon of chili powder.

2. Coriander

Used in Indian cuisine, this spice has a lemony flavor that pairs well with chili.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of coriander for every tablespoon of chili powder.

3. Garam Masala

Another Indian spice mix that includes cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of garam masala for every tablespoon of chili powder.

4. Paprika

This spice is made from dried and ground chili peppers and has a mild and sweet flavor.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of paprika for every tablespoon of chili powder.

5. Curry Powder

curry powder is a good spur chili alternative

This spice mix includes cumin, coriander, turmeric, and other spices.

Ratio or measurement: Use 2 tablespoons of curry powder for every tablespoon of chili powder.

6. Cayenne Pepper

For a spicier substitute, you can use cayenne pepper. Cayenne pepper is made from dried and ground cayenne chilies.

Ratio or measurement: Use ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for every tablespoon of chili powder.

7. Red Pepper Flakes

These are similar to cayenne pepper but have a sweeter and slightly less intense heat.

Ratio or measurement: Use 2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes for every tablespoon of chili powder.

8. Ground Mustard

This spice pairs well with meat and adds a nutty flavor to the chili.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of ground mustard for every tablespoon of chili powder.

9. Oregano

This herb is a staple in Italian cuisine and pairs well with tomato-based dishes.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of oregano for every tablespoon of chili powder.

10. Thyme

thyme is a great spur chili substitute

This herb is a classic in French cuisine and adds an earthy flavor to chili.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of thyme for every tablespoon of chili powder.

11. Cumin

Cumin has a warm and earthy flavor that makes it a great substitute for chili powder.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of cumin for every 1 tablespoon of chili powder.

12. Garlic Powder

Garlic powder is another great substitute for chili powder. It has a pungent and savory flavor that adds depth to dishes.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of garlic powder for every 1 tablespoon of chili powder.

13. Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika has a deep, smoky flavor that makes it a great substitute for chili powder in dishes like chili and BBQ rubs.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika for every 1 tablespoon of chili powder.

14. Ancho Chili Powder

ancho chili powder is a good spur chili substitute

Ancho chili powder is made from dried and ground ancho chilies. It has a sweet and mild flavor that makes it a good substitute for chili powder.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of ancho chili powder for every 1 tablespoon of chili powder.

15. Chipotle Chili Powder

Chipotle chili powder is made from smoked and dried jalapeño peppers. It has a smoky and spicy flavor that makes it a great substitute for chili powder in dishes like chili and stews.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of chipotle chili powder for every 1 tablespoon of chili powder.

16. Taco Seasoning

Taco seasoning typically contains chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Since it already contains chili powder, you can use it as a substitute for chili powder in a pinch.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning for every 1 tablespoon of chili powder.

17. Jalapeno Powder 

This powder is made from ground jalapeno peppers and is perfect for adding a fresh, spicy kick to your dishes.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1/4 teaspoon of jalapeno powder for every teaspoon of Spur Chili.

18. Sriracha Sauce 

This hot sauce has a garlicky and vinegary taste and can be used as a substitute for Spur Chili in dressings and marinades.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of sriracha sauce for every teaspoon of Spur Chili.

19. Harissa Paste 

harissa paste is a good spur chili substitute

This North African chili paste is made from roasted red peppers, garlic, and spices and has a smoky, spicy taste. 

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of harissa paste for every teaspoon of Spur Chili.

20. Sambal Oelek 

This Indonesian chili paste is made from ground spicy chilies, vinegar, and salt and has a tangy taste. 

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of sambal oelek for every teaspoon of Spur Chili.

21. Gochujang 

This Korean paste is made from fermented chili and has a spicy and umami flavor.

Ratio or measurement: Use 1 tablespoon of gochujang for every teaspoon of Spur Chili.

Other Spur Chili Alternatives you can try

1. Aleppo pepper – Use 1 1/2 teaspoons for every 1 teaspoon of spur chili called for.

2. Chipotle powder – Use 3/4 teaspoon for every 1 teaspoon of spur chili called for.

3. Guajillo chili powder – Use 1 tablespoon for every 1 teaspoon of spur chili called for.

4. New Mexico chili powder – Use 1 tablespoon for every 1 teaspoon of spur chili called for.

5. Harissa paste – Use 1 tablespoon for every 1 teaspoon of spur chili called for.

6. Sambal oelek – Use 1 tablespoon for every 1 teaspoon of spur chili called for.

It’s important to note that each of these substitutes will have a slightly different flavor profile, so it’s worth experimenting with different options to find the one that works best for your dish.

Additionally, some of these substitutes may be hotter or milder than spur chili, so adjust accordingly based on your personal preference.

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Wrap up on spur chili substitute

These 22 quick chili substitutes will come in handy when you’re in a hurry or missing a key ingredient.

Remember to adjust the ratios accordingly and to taste as you go. Cooking is all about experimenting, so have fun and try new things in the kitchen.

Happy chili-making!

FAQs on spur chili substitute

Q1. What is similar to spur chili?

There are several similar dishes to spur chili. Some of these include beef brisket chili, chorizo chili, and beer-braised chili. Each of these variations uses different meats and spices, creating a unique flavor profile.

Other popular options include green chili, white chicken chili, and black bean chili.

All of these are highly flavorful dishes that can be enjoyed alone or as an accompaniment to other meals. No matter which type you choose, each is sure to satisfy your taste buds!

Additionally, many people enjoy adding their own twist to classic recipes like spur chili by incorporating ingredients from other cuisines or cultures – such as Mexican (cumin), Asian (soy sauce), or Indian (garam masala).

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