You are at the local kirana, asking for chilli powder. Without missing a beat, the shopkeeper leans in and asks, “Deghi mirchi or Kashmiri mirchi?” For a second, you're unsure. Aren’t they both just red chilli powders? Which one should you choose?

That small moment captures something most of us have faced while cooking Indian food. What seems like a minor ingredient choice can actually change the entire flavour and look of your dish. Deghi mirch and Kashmiri mirch aren’t just two names for the same thing. Each has its own taste, colour and level of spice.

In this blog, we will discuss the differences, from what they're made of to how they influence your food’s colour, spice balance and aroma. This way, you'll know exactly what to ask for, when it comes to your kitchen.

What Is Mirchi?

In Hindi, mirchi means chilli. It can refer to the fresh green ones you toss into a tadka, the dried red ones that sizzle in oil or the powdered version that sits quietly in the masala box. Among powdered chillies, deggi mirch chilli powder and kashmiri chilli powder are two of the most widely used and most commonly confused.

What Is Kashmiri Mirch?

Kashmiri Mirch is known for its bright red colour. But, is Kashmiri lal mirch spicy? The answer is no. It’s comparatively mild when placed next to other red chilli powders. That’s why it’s often the preferred choice when a recipe calls for rich colour without too much spice.

• Adds a rich red hue without overwhelming the dish
• Common in tandoori marinades, butter chicken and creamy North Indian gravies
• Has a mild, slightly fruity flavour that suits delicate palates

What Is Deghi Mirch (or Deggi Mirch)?

Deghi Mirch is deeper in colour and stronger in flavour. It brings more heat to the dish, along with a bold, earthy edge.

• Offers a medium to high spice level with a darker tone
• Works well in spicy meat dishes, thick curries and biryanis
• Adds warmth that builds gradually while cooking

So, is Deghi Mirch spicy? It is definitely more intense and adds far more depth than Kashmiri Mirch.

Deggi Mirch vs Kashmiri Mirch

Here are the major differences between the two, to help you pick the right chilli powder for the dish you are preparing:

Chilli Powder vs Kashmiri Chilli Powder

Let us discuss one more thing about the regular chilli powder vs Kashmiri chilli powder distinction that often gets overlooked.

Regular chilli powder is usually a blend of different chillies, with varying levels of sharpness and colour. Kashmiri chilli powder, on the other hand, is valued for its consistent mildness and deep red hue that adds visual appeal to dishes.

When to Use: Kashmiri Mirch vs Deghi Mirch

Go for Kashmiri mirch when the dish needs to look rich and vibrant and want to keep the spice level low. It’s suitable for dishes like butter chicken, paneer tikka and rich North Indian curries.

Reach for deghi mirch when the dish can handle strong spice flavour and you want that deep, slightly smoky taste. Include it in spicy meat curries, biryanis or any dish where you want a strong spice flavour.

Final Thoughts

The differences between Deghi Mirch and Kashmiri Mirch are now clear. You can make the right choice easily. Some dishes need a bit more spices, others just need colour without making the flavour too strong. You should choose based on what you are preparing and who you are cooking for. And if your masala box has room for both, even better. This way, you’ll always have the right one within reach.

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FAQs

Is Kashmiri lal mirch spicy?

No. Kashmiri lal mirch is quite mild and mainly adds colour with a delicate flavour.

Is deggi mirch spicy?

Yes. Deggi mirch offers medium to high spice. Those who like a strong flavour should consider this option.

What is Kashmiri mirch chilli powder?

This bright red, mild chilli powder is made from Kashmiri chillies. It is best for dishes that require colour and subtle flavour.

What is deggi mirch chilli powder?

Deggi mirch is a deeper-coloured chilli powder with a sharper taste from the Deccan region.

What is mirchi?

Mirchi is the Hindi word for chilli. It refers to both the fresh and dried versions that are used in cooking.