thai red chili

Thai Red Chili

Thai red chilies, also known as bird's eye chilies, are small but mighty peppers known for their intense heat and vibrant red color when ripe. These chilies typically measure 1-2 inches in length and boast a fiery, pungent flavor that adds a significant kick to any dish. Their texture is smooth and firm when fresh. A staple ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine, Thai red chilies are perfect for adding a spicy depth to curries, stir-fries, and sauces. Looking for the perfect ingredient to bring some serious heat? Thai red chilies are an excellent choice for spicy food enthusiasts.

Common Uses

  • Thai red chili peppers are often finely chopped or ground into a paste to form the base of Thai curry pastes, providing the signature heat and flavor complex for green curry, red curry, and panang curry recipes.
  • To make chili oil, Thai red chilies are infused into hot oil, like vegetable or sesame oil, to create a flavorful condiment that adds spiciness and aroma to noodles, dumplings, and other dishes.
  • Chopped Thai red chilies are frequently added to stir-fries to instantly boost the heat levels, pairing well with ingredients like garlic, ginger, and soy sauce for a vibrant and spicy flavor profile.
  • Thai red chilies can be pickled or fermented in vinegar or brine for creating spicy condiments which provides tangy, spicy and savory taste that is commonly used as accompaniment for various meals.
  • Add whole Thai red chilies to soups and stews to infuse the broth with a subtle heat. Remember to remove the chilies before serving if you prefer a less intense spiciness.
  • Create a zesty dipping sauce by combining minced Thai red chilies with fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and sugar. Perfect for spring rolls, grilled meats, and seafood.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

0.9kcal (0.04%)

Protein

0.1g (0.1%)

Carbs

0.2g (0.06%)

Sugars

0.1g (0.14%)

Healthy Fat

0.0g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • May boost metabolism and aid in weight management due to capsaicin.
  • Rich in Vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
  • Contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
  • May improve cardiovascular health by helping to lower cholesterol levels.
  • Can help clear nasal congestion due to its decongestant properties.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of Thai red chilies, store them in the refrigerator. Fresh chilies can be kept in a paper bag or a loosely sealed plastic bag in the crisper drawer for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them whole for longer storage; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag. Dried Thai red chilies should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place, like a pantry, to prevent them from losing their potency.

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