Thai Chili

• Want to make authentic Thai curry? Thai chilies are essential for adding the signature spicy heat to green curry, red curry, and panang curry. Use them whole, sliced, or pounded into a paste to achieve the desired level of spiciness, complemented by coconut milk and aromatic spices.
• Craving a flavorful stir-fry with a fiery kick? Thinly slice Thai chilies and toss them into your next stir-fry with garlic, ginger, and your choice of vegetables and protein. They pair especially well with basil and peanuts, adding both heat and a burst of fresh flavor.
• Looking to create your own homemade chili oil or hot sauce? Infuse oil with dried Thai chilies to create a spicy and flavorful chili oil perfect for drizzling over noodles, dumplings, or eggs. Alternatively, blend fresh chilies with vinegar, garlic, and other seasonings to make a custom hot sauce.
• Need to add a spicy element to soups and noodle dishes? Float thinly sliced Thai chilies on top of soups like tom yum or pho to allow diners to adjust the heat level to their liking. Alternatively, add a chili paste made with Thai chilies directly to the broth for a more intense flavor.
• Want to make a spicy dipping sauce for spring rolls or dumplings? Finely chop Thai chilies and combine them with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and garlic to create a vibrant and flavorful dipping sauce that perfectly complements Asian appetizers. Adjust the amount of chili to control the spiciness.
• Trying to preserve Thai chilies for year-round use? Dry Thai chilies in a dehydrator or low oven, then store them in an airtight container. Rehydrate them in warm water before using or grind them into chili flakes for a convenient spice blend. They also can be frozen whole for future use.

• May boost metabolism and aid in weight management due to capsaicin.
• Rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and eye health.
• Capsaicin may have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing pain.
• Could improve cardiovascular health by helping to lower blood pressure.
• May act as a natural decongestant, clearing nasal passages.

Thai chilies are best stored in the refrigerator to prolong their freshness. Place them in a paper bag or wrap them loosely in paper towels before storing them in the crisper drawer. This helps to absorb excess moisture and prevent them from spoiling quickly. You can also freeze Thai chilies for longer storage; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to use, they can be added directly to your cooking, although the texture may be slightly softer.