Chili powder is a spice blend made from ground chili peppers, often mixed with other spices like cumin, garlic powder, and oregano. The exact composition of chili powder can vary depending on the region and the recipe, but it typically contains a mix of spices that gives it a rich and robust flavor.

Chili pieces and chili powder are both derived from dried chili peppers, but they differ in their form and use in cooking.

Chili pieces, as the name suggests, are pieces of dried chili peppers that are typically larger in size than chili powder. They can be used in a variety of ways in cooking, such as added to stews and soups for heat and flavor, sprinkled over pizza or pasta dishes, or used as a garnish for spicy cocktails. Chili pieces are also commonly used in pickling and fermenting to add heat and flavor to the brine.

Chili powder, on the other hand, is a ground spice blend made from dried chili peppers and other spices. The exact composition of chili powder can vary, but it usually includes a mixture of chili peppers, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano. Chili powder is used as a seasoning in a variety of dishes, such as chili con carne, tacos, enchiladas, and salsa, to add heat and depth of flavor. It is also used in spice blends, rubs, and marinades for meat and vegetables.

Overall, chili pieces and chili powder both add a spicy kick to dishes, but chili pieces are often used for their texture and appearance, while chili powder is used primarily for its flavor and convenience in cooking.