
Dry Pepper
Dry pepper, also known as dried chili peppers, offers a concentrated burst of heat and complex flavor compared to fresh peppers. Ranging in color from vibrant red to deep brown, their wrinkled skin indicates the removal of moisture, intensifying their spiciness and creating a unique, slightly smoky taste. You can find a wide variety of dry peppers, each with its own Scoville heat unit rating. Some popular choices include ancho peppers (mild and fruity), chipotle peppers (smoky and medium-hot), and guajillo peppers (mildly spicy with berry notes). They can be ground into chili powder, rehydrated for sauces, or used whole to infuse flavor into oils and stews. When using dried chili peppers, remember that a little goes a long way.
Common Uses
- To make homemade chili powder blend: Combine ground dried peppers with other spices like cumin, oregano, and garlic powder for a custom chili powder that suits your taste preferences. Use it to season chili, tacos, and other Southwestern-inspired dishes.
- To rehydrate and purée for sauces and stews: Rehydrate dried peppers in hot water until softened, then blend them into a smooth purée to add depth and heat to sauces, stews, and braises like enchilada sauce or mole.
- To infuse oils with spicy flavor: Add whole or crushed dried peppers to olive oil or other cooking oils. Heat gently to extract the flavor and create a spicy infused oil perfect for drizzling over pizzas, pasta, or grilled vegetables.
- To create a dry rub for meats: Grind dried peppers into a coarse powder and mix with other spices like paprika, salt, and brown sugar. Rub generously over meats like ribs, chicken, or pork before grilling or smoking for a flavorful crust and subtle heat. -To make spicy pepper flakes: Grind dried peppers into flakes which are then added on pizza, pasta and noodles to add spicy flavor.
- To make a spicy soup base or broth: To add layers of heat, add several whole or chopped dried peppers to your soup base or broth.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
282.0kcal (14.1%)
Protein
12.0g (24%)
Carbs
54.0g (19.64%)
Sugars
18.0g (36%)
Healthy Fat
2.9g
Unhealthy Fat
0.7g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
282.0kcal (14.1%)
Protein
12.0g (24%)
Carbs
54.0g (19.64%)
Sugars
18.0g (36%)
Healthy Fat
2.9g
Unhealthy Fat
0.7g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- May help boost metabolism and aid in weight management.
- Rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
- Contains capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties and provide pain relief.
- Can contribute to improved cardiovascular health by supporting healthy blood pressure.
- Good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.
- May support digestive health and reduce bloating.
Storage Tips
Store dry pepper in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Properly stored, dry pepper can maintain its potency and flavor for up to two to three years. Ground pepper should be used within a year for optimal flavor. Avoid storing pepper near the stove or dishwasher, as humidity can cause it to lose its flavor and clump.
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