Ferf’s Famous Chili Seasoning Mix: A Taste of Home and Heart

There are some recipes that transcend mere ingredients and become woven into the fabric of family life. For me, this chili seasoning mix is one of those precious treasures. I remember those chaotic, joyous years when my kids were small, their laughter echoing through the house. My daughter, in her adorable toddler attempts at speech, couldn’t quite conquer her older brother’s name, Christopher. Instead, he became “Ferfer,” a nickname that, with a fond shortening, eventually landed on “Ferf.” This blend, a culmination of happy kitchen experiments and beloved family favorites, is his absolute favorite chili. It’s the scent that signals comfort, the taste that brings us all to the table, and a little piece of that childhood magic captured in a jar. It’s more than just spices; it’s a memory, a tradition, and a testament to the simple power of good food shared with loved ones.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: Estimates vary based on chili recipe
• Yield: 1 cup
• Dietary Type: Vegan (as a seasoning mix), Gluten-Free (as a seasoning mix)

Ingredients

This isn’t just a collection of spices; it’s a carefully orchestrated symphony designed to elevate your chili from good to unforgettable. Each element plays a crucial role, building layers of warmth, depth, and subtle sweetness.

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (this acts as a binder and helps thicken the chili)
• 3 tablespoons chili powder (the backbone of our blend, choose a good quality, flavorful one!)
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to balance the heat and add a touch of sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons dried minced onion (for that savory, aromatic foundation)
• 1 teaspoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt (a secret weapon for its unique blend of salt, spices, and flavor enhancers)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (essential for that pungent, delicious garlic note)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (adds an earthy, smoky, and slightly peppery flavor)
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (unsweetened, this adds incredible depth and a subtle richness, a common trick in authentic chili making)
• 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano (distinctly different from Mediterranean oregano, it offers a more citrusy and earthy profile)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (for a gentle kick of spice)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (enhances all the other flavors)

Equipment Needed

While this spice mix itself requires minimal equipment, the chili it helps create will benefit from standard kitchen tools.

• A medium-sized bowl for combining ingredients.
• A whisk or fork for thoroughly mixing the spices.
• An airtight container or ziploc bag for storage.
• For preparing the chili: A large pot or Dutch oven, a skillet for browning meat (if using), and a stirring spoon.

Instructions

Creating this legendary seasoning mix is a joyously simple affair. The real magic happens when it meets its chili destiny!

1. Combine All Ingredients: In your medium-sized bowl, carefully measure out all the listed dry ingredients: the flour, chili powder, sugar, dried onion, Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, garlic powder, ground cumin, cocoa powder, Mexican oregano, black pepper, and kosher salt.

2. Thoroughly Mix: Using your whisk or fork, stir and blend all the ingredients together meticulously. Ensure there are no clumps and that the spices are evenly distributed. This is crucial for consistent flavor in your chili.

3. Store or Use Immediately: Your Ferf’s Famous Chili Seasoning Mix is now ready! You can either store it immediately in a ziploc bag or an airtight container for future chili endeavors, or you can use it right away to whip up a batch of irresistible chili.

   To make chili using this mix:

   • Start by browning 1.5 pounds of ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the browned ground beef with the contents of one 16-ounce can of pinto beans (drained and rinsed if you prefer), one 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes (undrained), and 1.5 cans of water.
   • Add the Ferf’s Famous Chili Seasoning Mix to the pot. Stir well to combine.
   • Bring the chili to a simmer over medium heat.
   • Simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. For an even richer flavor, you can simmer it for longer.

Expert Tips & Tricks

As a seasoned chef, I’ve learned that even the simplest recipes can be enhanced with a few insider techniques.

• Quality is Key: The flavor of your chili is directly dependent on the quality of your chili powder. Invest in a good brand, preferably one that is freshly ground. If you can find different types of chili powder (like Ancho or New Mexico), experiment to discover your favorite profile.
• Don’t Skip the Cocoa: The unsweetened cocoa powder might sound unusual, but it’s a classic chili secret. It doesn’t make the chili taste chocolatey; instead, it adds an incredible depth, richness, and a hint of bitterness that beautifully complements the other spices and the tomato base.
• Toast Your Spices (Optional): For an even more intense flavor, you can lightly toast the dry spices (except flour and salt) in a dry skillet over low heat for a minute or two until fragrant. Be very careful not to burn them. Let them cool completely before mixing.
• Adjusting the Heat: This mix provides a balanced warmth. If you prefer spicier chili, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the chili itself when you simmer it.
• Salt Savvy: Lawry’s Seasoned Salt provides a good amount of salt, but always taste and adjust the salt in your final chili. Ground beef can vary in fat content, which affects how much salt it absorbs.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This chili seasoning mix is incredibly versatile, but its true purpose is to be transformed into a hearty, comforting bowl of chili.

• Serving Suggestions: Serve your finished chili piping hot, garnished with your favorite toppings. Think shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped fresh cilantro, diced red onion, sliced jalapeños, or even some crumbled cornbread. It’s also fantastic served over rice, baked potatoes, or used as a filling for burritos or nachos.
• Storage of the Mix: The dry seasoning mix will keep exceptionally well. Store it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty ziploc bag in a cool, dark, and dry place (like your pantry). It will maintain its optimal flavor for up to 6 months.
• Storage of the Chili: Leftover chili is often even better the next day! Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating Chili: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
• Freezing Chili: Chili freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Please note that the nutritional information provided here is an estimate for the dry seasoning mix itself, per serving of approximately 2 tablespoons (which would be used in a batch of chili). The actual nutritional values of your finished chili will vary significantly based on the other ingredients used (type of meat, beans, added vegetables, etc.) and serving size.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx. 2 tbsp)	% Daily Value
Calories	40 – 50 kcal	2%
Total Fat	1 – 1.5 g	1-2%
Saturated Fat	0.2 – 0.4 g	1-2%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	400 – 500 mg	17-22%
Total Carbohydrate	7 – 9 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	2 – 3 g	8-12%
Sugars	2 – 3 g	2-3%
Protein	1 – 1.5 g	2-3%

Note: Sodium content will be higher due to Lawry’s Seasoned Salt. Percentage Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual needs may be higher or lower.

Variations & Substitutions

While Ferf’s original recipe is fantastic as is, here are a few ways to playfully adapt it:

• For a Spicier Kick: Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mix for more heat, or a pinch of chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy dimension.
• For a Deeper Savory Flavor: Consider adding ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the mix.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Chili: This seasoning mix is perfect for vegetarian and vegan chilis. Simply omit the ground beef and use a combination of beans (kidney, black, pinto), lentils, and hearty vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
• Gluten-Free Adjustment: While the flour is a small amount, if you need a strictly gluten-free mix, you can omit it. Your chili might be slightly thinner but will still be incredibly flavorful. You could also experiment with a gluten-free flour blend.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this seasoning mix in a larger batch?
A: Absolutely! Simply scale up all the ingredient quantities proportionally. This mix stores wonderfully, making it perfect for preparing ahead for multiple chili meals.

Q: What kind of chili powder should I use?
A: A good quality, all-purpose chili powder is recommended. Experiment with different brands to find one that suits your palate. You can also use a blend of different chili powders for more complex flavor.

Q: How much of this seasoning mix should I use per pound of meat?
A: The recipe calls for 1.5 pounds of ground beef. For every 1.5 pounds of meat (or equivalent vegetarian base), use the full batch of this seasoning mix. Adjust to your taste for smaller or larger batches.

Q: Can I use fresh onion and garlic instead of dried?
A: While the dried versions are convenient for a mix, you can certainly use fresh ingredients when making your chili. You would sauté fresh minced onion and garlic in the pot before adding the other chili ingredients.

Q: Why is cocoa powder in a chili seasoning mix?
A: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds a remarkable depth and richness to chili without making it taste like chocolate. It enhances the savory notes and balances the acidity from the tomatoes.

Final Thoughts

This Ferf’s Famous Chili Seasoning Mix is more than just a recipe; it’s a gateway to creating a dish that warms the soul and brings people together. It’s a testament to how simple, thoughtfully combined ingredients can yield extraordinary results. I encourage you to try it, to taste the subtle layers of flavor, and to imagine the happy memories it can help create in your own kitchen. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or preparing for a game day gathering, this mix will be your secret weapon for a truly memorable chili. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations and feedback; happy cooking!