Why this recipe?  While vacationing in Hawaii I found this fabulous Kona coffee rub.  I made sure to have room in my suitcase to bring a bag full of it back to the 'mainland.'  But sadly, I'm almost out! So I decided to make my own coffee rub to hold me over until our next trip to Hawaii!

The Flip:

• Removed a teaspoon of salt (2360mg of sodium). Adjust the sodium to what works for you! 
• You don't have to be a coffee lover to enjoy this seasoning—it's loaded with flavors that come together with the ground coffee.

My thoughts:   When making the rub, I recommend using a rich, dark coffee.  The coffee rub isn't just for beef!  I've used it on poultry, pork and fish, as well—it's delicious!  For a smaller amount, the recipe can easily be cut in half.  

We have all experienced the wonderful smell of fresh coffee beans upon walking into a coffee shop.  The aroma of my Dark Coffee Seasoning reminds me of just that—it's divine!  Enjoy.

It's the first day of Fall and the days are finally cooling off.  The leaves are starting to turn, my son's football games are in full swing, and I'm craving a big bowl of chili!

Of course, every delicious bowl of chili starts with a great chili seasoning. With many of us watching our sodium intake, I reduced the amount of sodium (2000mg) and "Flipped" my chili seasoning to be much healthier than the original recipe!

I love the flexibility of adding and adjusting spices in homemade blends.  For example, if you're wanting to give your chili a unique and mysterious flavor, add a half a teaspoon of cinnamon to your blend.  If you want a deep rich flavor, add a one or two tablespoons of cocoa powder.  I know there's so many great tips for making chili.  I'd love to see yours posted!

This healthier Chili Seasoning Blend is great to make a college student for those easy "one pot" meals.  They'll love you for it!!  It's also perfect for small Christmas and hostess gifts.  I put mine in small air-tight jars, add a ribbon, and attach my favorite recipe card.
    
Don't spend money at the grocery store for "loaded with sodium" chili seasoning packets...you probably have all or most of the spices to make an incredible homemade chili seasoning in your pantry!  Enjoy.