The Archive
Reporting, comparisons, and field notes — newest first.
spices-and-seasonings
When your chile powder collection outgrows a single drawer, you need a real system. Here's how complete spice jar sets stack up against building your own — jar
·11 min read
cookware-and-gear
Enameled cast iron gets all the attention, but bare cast iron Dutch ovens have real advantages for chili — lower cost, better searing, and a seasoning that
·11 min read
dried-chiles-and-ingredients
Not all dried chile variety bundles are built the same. Here's how the most popular six-pack sets stack up — and which ones actually earn a permanent spot in a
·10 min read
spices-and-seasonings
Ghost pepper, scorpion, and Carolina Reaper powders aren't just heat for heat's sake — each brings a distinct flavor profile and heat curve. Here's how to buy
·10 min read
dried-chiles-and-ingredients
Three dried chiles do most of the heavy lifting in a great scratch red chili. Here's how ancho, guajillo, and arbol each work — and how to combine them to
·9 min read
cookware-and-gear
You don't need a $400 Le Creuset to cook serious chili. This guide breaks down exactly which mid-range enameled Dutch ovens deliver pro-level heat retention
·9 min read