Answer: No, chili powder and ground chili pepper are not the same. Ground chili pepper is made by grinding dried chili peppers into a powder form without any additional spices or ingredients. It offers the pure, concentrated flavor and heat of the specific type of chili pepper used. Chili powder, on the other hand, is a blend of ground chili pepper and other spices.
The trade in paprika expanded from the Iberian Peninsula to Africa and Asia[6]: 8 and ultimately reached Central Europe through the Balkans, which was then under Ottoman rule. This helps explain the Serbo-Croatian origin of the English term.
One of the key reasons why homemade red chili powder has gained popularity is its distinct taste and aroma. Unlike commercially produced chili powder, homemade red chili powder is often made from locally sourced, sun-dried red chilies that are ground to a fine powder. This process ensures that the chili powder retains its natural oils and flavors, resulting in a more authentic and vibrant taste.