hot pepper

Hot Pepper

Hot peppers, also known as chili peppers, are vibrant and fiery fruits renowned for their intense heat and distinctive flavors. Ranging in color from bright green and yellow to deep red and purple, these peppers boast a glossy skin and firm texture. The Scoville scale measures their pungency, indicating the level of capsaicin, the compound responsible for their spiciness. Enjoy the complex flavors and varied heat levels, from mildly warm to explosively scorching. Explore different varieties to find the perfect level of spice for your culinary creations. Perfect for adding a zing to any dish, these peppers truly pack a punch.

Common Uses

  • To add a spicy kick to sauces, stews, and soups. The peppers can be finely chopped, minced, or pureed to infuse the dish with heat and flavor. Adjust the amount of pepper used to control the spiciness level.- To create homemade chili oil. Infuse cooking oil with dried hot peppers to make a flavorful and spicy condiment that can be drizzled over noodles, dumplings, or grilled meats. - To make hot pepper flakes or powders. Dehydrate and crush or grind dried hot peppers into flakes or powder, which are versatile seasonings for sprinkling on pizza, pasta, eggs, and other dishes.- To pickle or ferment, adding flavor and complexity. Pickled hot peppers are a tangy and spicy condiment that can be enjoyed on sandwiches, salads, or as a side dish. Fermented hot peppers can be used to create flavorful hot sauces or pastes.- To infuse vinegar with chili flavor. Add a few hot peppers to a bottle of vinegar and let it sit for a few weeks. This results in a hot pepper vinegar which is a great way to add a spicy kick to salad dressings and marinades. - To incorporate into dry rubs for meats. Add ground hot peppers to spice blends for grilling or roasting to add heat and depth of flavor to chicken, pork, or beef.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

31.0kcal (1.55%)

Protein

1.3g (2.6%)

Carbs

7.2g (2.62%)

Sugars

4.2g (8.4%)

Healthy Fat

0.1g

Unhealthy Fat

0.1g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in Vitamin C, boosting immunity and acting as an antioxidant.
  • Contains capsaicin, which may help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • May aid in weight management by boosting metabolism and reducing appetite.
  • Supports cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function.
  • Good source of Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function.
  • Capsaicin has antimicrobial properties that can help fight infections.

Storage Tips

Fresh hot peppers should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. Place them in a paper bag or loosely wrap them in paper towels before storing them in the crisper drawer. This helps to absorb excess moisture and prevent them from spoiling quickly. Dried hot peppers should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

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