...from the "baked beans" thread:

"Subject: RE: BS: Baked beans
From: MMario - PM
Date: 05 May 08 - 03:29 PM

I'd experiment with different powdered chile peppers rather then the paprika and cayenne. and ditch the turmeric.

see this site: New Mexico chili for an example - it uses 4 varieties of dried chile's."



I'm not sure that turmeric isn't a good choice. It gives the chili powder a slightly bitter after taste that nothing else seems to. It is also adds the yellowish color to various dishes as well as imparting a complexity.

The absolute essential ingrediant is cumin which has the unique musty flavor.

Good quality garlic powder is also essential.

Cayenne is a powdered hot pepper, and it or one of its close relatives is a must for hot chili.

Other ingrediants (in the powder, not the chili itself) seem to be a matter of opinion.