Chili powder is one of the essential seasonings that every Myanmar household keeps in the kitchen. No matter the dish, curries, stir-fries, salads, or deep-fried foods, chili powder always adds a flavor that perfectly complements our traditional cuisine. In central Myanmar, especially in Mandalay, Magway, and Sagaing, chilies are widely grown. These chilies are then systematically sun-dried, cleaned, and packaged before reaching consumers, a fascinating production process by itself. Chili powder also comes in many varieties, coarse chili flakes, roasted chili powder, cooked chili powder, and green chili powder, each one helping enhance the dish with the right level of heat and aroma.

So, for those who love spicy food, let’s explore how to use chili powder to best complement your dishes, how to choose good-quality chili powder, and what to avoid.

Cooking with Chili Powder

To make your dishes not only look good but taste delicious, it’s important to use the right type of chili powder, roasted, cooked, or green, depending on the flavor you want.

Roasted Chili Powder - Not very spicy, but adds a smoky aroma. It’s mainly used in salads and dishes where you want a roasted fragrance.

Crushed Chili Powder - Perfect for mild heat and flavor in dishes like salads, mohingar, or coconut noodles.

Raw Chili Powder - Great for marinating meat or adding color and aroma to stir-fries. It gives a fresh, spicy, vibrant flavor.

How to Consume Safely

Chili powder often carries the risk of mold contamination. If not properly dried or stored, it may contain mold toxins that can cause poisoning, weaken the immune system, or increase the risk of liver cancer. This usually happens when chilies aren’t fully dried during sun-drying or dehydration, leaving moisture inside that encourages mold growth. So, it’s important to choose chili powder that is thoroughly dried, free of moisture, cleanly processed, and freshly produced. Also, avoid eating chili oil or chili-seasoned dishes excessively every single day.

Proper Storage

Once you’ve purchased FDA-approved chili powder that is properly packaged, storing it correctly is crucial to keep it safe and fresh.

• Use airtight jars or clear containers so you can easily check for mold.
• Always use a clean, dry spoon. Keep a dedicated spoon just for chili powder to avoid moisture contamination.
• Store it in a cool, dry place, away from heat and sunlight, to maintain its flavor and nutrients.

Chili powder not only adds flavor but also enhances aroma in Myanmar dishes. Using each type the right way helps you prepare fresh, clean, and healthy meals to enjoy with your loved ones.