Varieties of red chillis and their uses

Red chillies are an essential ingredient in many cuisines worldwide, lending heat and flavour to a wide range of dishes. But did you know there is much more to these small, fiery pods than meets the eye? In this blog, we will take a closer look at the history, cultivation, and use of red chillies.

Red chillies have been cultivated for thousands of years, originating in South and Central America. They were an important part of the diets of indigenous peoples, who used them both for food and for medicinal purposes. The first chilli peppers were taken to Spain in the late 1400s by Christopher Columbus and other explorers, who introduced them to Europe and eventually the rest of the world.

There are many different varieties of red chillies, ranging in size, shape, and heat level. Some of the most popular varieties include cayenne, jalapeno, habanero, and bird’s eye chillies.

The scoville scale and the heat of red chillies:

The heat of red chillies is measured on the Scoville scale, which was developed by American pharmacist Wilbur Scoville in 1912. The scale ranges from zero (no heat) to over 2 million (extremely hot).

The heat level of red chillies is determined by the amount of capsaicin they contain. Capsaicin is a compound that stimulates the heat receptors on the tongue, giving chillies their signature heat. The heat level of red chillies can vary greatly, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

For example, jalapeno peppers typically range from 2,500 to 8,000 on the Scoville scale, while habaneros can range from 100,000 to 350,000.

The uses of red chillies in cooking:

Red chillies are a versatile ingredient, used in many different cuisines for their heat and flavour.

To add heat to dishes

They are often used to add heat to savoury dishes, such as stews, curries, and soups. In Mexican cuisine, they are used to make salsa and hot sauce. In Indian takeaway cuisine, they are used to make curries, pickles, and spice blends such as garam masala.

To add heat to chicken pakora, chicken nuggets, chicken chaat, doner meat, etc.

To make every sweet dish

Red chillies are also used to make sweet dishes, such as candies and sweets. In some Asian cuisines, like indian takeaway dishes, they are used to make sweet and spicy dipping sauces for meat and seafood dishes.

To make spicy condiments

In addition, red chillies are often used to make spicy condiments, such as chilli oil and hot sauce.

To add flavour

Red chillies can also be used to add flavour to dishes without adding heat. For example, red chillies can be dried and ground into a powder, which can be used to add a mild, smoky flavour to dishes such as rubs, marinades, and spice blends. Can also be mixed with spices like crushed dried onion rings, cilantro, celery, etc.

The health benefits of red chillies:

In addition to adding heat and flavour to dishes, red chillies have several health benefits.

Healing abilities

Capsaicin, the compound that gives red chillies their heat, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It has also been shown to help boost metabolism, which can help with weight loss.

Good source of nutrients

Red chillies are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Red chilli recipe

Here is a delicious red chilli recipe for you to try:

Spicy Red Chilli Beef Stir-Fry:

Ingredients:

● 1 pound beef, sliced into thin strips

● 1 tablespoon olive oil

● 1 red onion, sliced

● 2 red chillies, seeded and chopped

● 1 red pepper, sliced

● 1 yellow pepper, sliced

● 3 cloves garlic, minced

● 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

● 2 tablespoons soy sauce

● 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

● 1 teaspoon cornstarch

● 2 tablespoons water

● Salt and pepper, to taste

● Green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and water. Set aside. In a large wok or skillet, heat the olive oil over high heat.

Add the beef to the wok and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes, or until browned. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.

Add the red onion, red chillies, red pepper, yellow pepper, garlic, and ginger to the wok and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes, or until softened.

Return the beef to the wok and add the sauce. Stir until the sauce has thickened, about 1 minute. Serve the stir-fry with a sprinkle of green onions.

There are many other delicious ways to incorporate red chillies into your cooking. Experiment with different recipes and find the perfect level of heat for your taste buds.

Red chillies are a versatile and flavourful ingredient that has been used in cuisines worldwide for centuries. Whether used to add heat to savoury dishes, flavour to sweet dishes, or to provide health benefits, red chillies are a staple in kitchens around the world.

Whether you prefer mild or hot, be sure to include red chillies in your cooking and experience the heat and flavour they have to offer. You can get your red chillies from us at Niyis.co.uk.