Difference Between Kashmiri Chilli and Red Chilli Powder
In Indian cooking, chilies are a primary contributor to flavor and color. An example of two well-used variations of chilies is Kashmiri chilli powder and red chilli powder (also called lal mirch powder). Although Kashmiri and red chilli powder may look alike, the two have different uses in cooking.
Let’s see the difference between Kashmiri chilli and red chilli powder in detail now!
What is Kashmiri Chilli Powder?
Kashmiri mirch or Kashmiri chilli powder comes from mild Kashmiri chilies. They are known for their red color rather than the heat. It gives color to curries, tandoori dishes and marinades without really adding any heat or altering the heat profile. It is particularly popular in gravies, biryanis and paneer dishes where color is a priority. Brands such as Nita Mehta offer Kashmiri Mirchi Powder gives good color and flavor without overpowering the rest of the ingredients in North Indian recipes.
Popular packs of Nita Mehta Kashmiri Chilli Powder are:
- Kashmiri Mirchi 100g
- Kashmiri Chilli Powder 500g
- Kashmiri Lal Mirch 1kg
What is Regular Red Chilli Powder (Lal Mirch Powder)?
Red chilli powder, or lal mirch powder, is made from a variety of hot red chilies. There is some variation depending on the region from which the chilies come and the variety of chilies. But it is generally hotter than Kashmiri mirch.
It is a staple in Indian households and is very readily available online and offline. Variants from trusted sources like Nita Mehta Chilli Powder are sometimes used just to enhance flavor and or spice level in dals, curries, and even stir-fried dishes.
Common sizes include:
- Red Chilli Powder 100g
- Red Chilli Powder 200g
- Red Chilli Powder 500g
- Lal Mirch Powder 5kg
How to Use Them in Cooking?
If you want bright red curries but don’t wish to add too much heat, use Kashmiri Mirch Powder. You can add a bit of heat to your food using regular Chilli Powder. Many chefs, including Nita Mehta, recommend using a combination of both to provide the right level of color and flavor.
Where to Buy Online?
If you are ready to stock up on high-quality Indian spices, you can buy Red Chilli Powder and Kashmiri Chilli Powder online in sizes from 100g to 5kg (and everything in between), depending on your household or commercially, they even sell it in pallets. You can also surprise yourself and try Red Chilli Flakes if you like a crunchy texture to your spice! One of the best brands to get Indian spices online is Nita Mehta, and they are known for their pure flavors.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are cooking a mildly spiced butter chicken or a blazing hot vindaloo, the choice between Kashmiri mirch and lal mirch powder will make an impact. Each has its presence in a dish color vs heat, and when used thoughtfully, can add to the flavor and visual appeal of a dish. For best results, consider blending both to achieve the ideal balance of colour, smell and spice that defines true Indian food.
