India is the epitome of spice production and usage. Indians love spicy food, so it's no surprise that mirchi (chillies) is one of their favorite spices. Among the most famous variants used in Indian kitchens are Deghi Mirchi and Kashmiri Mirchi. While both are milder red chilli powders, people often get confused between them and wonder – is Deghi Mirch and Kashmiri Mirch same?
To clear the confusion around Kashmiri Mirch vs Deggi Mirch, let’s understand both these spices individually and compare them.
What Is Deghi Mirch?
Deghi Mirch is a traditional Indian spice made from a blend of red peppers and Kashmiri dried red chillies. Many people often ask – what is Deghi Mirch? It's a mildly spicy chilli powder known for adding a deep red or orange hue to Indian dishes.
This spice is popularly used in recipes like dal, curries, and stuffed parathas to enhance both color and subtle spice. So, is Deghi Mirch spicy? Not very—it typically measures about 1,500 to 2,000 Scoville units, which places it on the mild end of the spice scale. When roasted in oil, its color intensifies and releases a warm aroma with mild heat, somewhat like paprika.
What Is Kashmiri Mirch?
India is the largest producer of Kashmiri Mirch, a vibrant red chilli grown in the valleys of Kashmir. It is widely loved for its rich color and mild flavor.
Available in whole, powdered, or slit form, Kashmiri Mirch is a staple in tandoori dishes and curries. Now, is Kashmiri Mirch spicy? It’s known for being low in heat, with Scoville units ranging between 1,000 – 2,000, making it suitable for those who want flavor without the burn. When roasted, it gives a bold red color and mild smokiness that enhances dishes beautifully.
Deggi Mirch and Kashmiri Mirch – What’s the Difference?
Let’s settle the Kashmiri Mirch vs Deggi Mirch debate.
While both are mild and rich in color, Deggi Mirch often has a deeper red-orange tone and slightly more warmth. It is made by blending different red chillies, including Kashmiri chillies, which is why people wonder – is Deggi Mirch and Kashmiri Mirch same? The answer is no. Though related in ingredients, their composition and usage differ.
🌶 Deggi Mirch resembles mild paprika, perfect for gravies, soups, and curries without overpowering heat.
🌶 Kashmiri Mirch, on the other hand, is slightly more vibrant and ideal for tandoori items due to its natural color-enhancing properties.
So, if you're still wondering about Deggi Mirch and Kashmiri Mirch, just remember: Deggi Mirch adds a touch more spice, while Kashmiri Mirch is all about that red glow with minimum heat.
There are various chillies used in Indian kitchens like Guntur, Reshampatti, Byadgi, and Naga chillies. But when it comes to everyday use, Kashmiri Mirch and Deggi Mirch are among the top choices due to their flavor and color properties.
Want to explore ethically produced Kashmiri chilli powder by Vasant Masala?
👉 Click below to buy our premium-quality spices!
       
                   Â
Leave a comment