Dried red pepper may be used whole or powdered. India is the largest producer of red chillies. As the name suggests it is red in color and can be consumed as it is or can be broken down and made into a powder. It is really spicy and the intense heat is concentrated in the seeds.
Dried red pepper may be used whole or powdered. India is the largest producer of red chillies. As the name suggests it is red in color and can be consumed as it is or can be broken down and made into a powder. It is really spicy and the intense heat is concentrated in the seeds. Fresh red chillies are milder.
Varieties of Indian chillies no spice lover should miss
- Lesser-known chillies of India
- Kashmiri Chilli, Kashmir
- Bhut Jolikia, North East India
- Jwala Chilli, Gujarat
- Byadgi Chilli, Karnataka
- Guntur Chilli, Andhra Pradesh
- Mundu Chilli, South India
- Khola Chilli, Goa
- Kanthari Chilli, Kerala
Usage
Red chili’s are usually grounded into a powder and used as a spice. Red chili’s are dried or pickled in order to store them for a long period of time. It is a popular ingredient in most Indian dishes and curries.
Red chili’s are also used extensively for making sauces which are used to add spice to other dishes.
Is it beneficial?
They are an excellent source of vitamin C but excess use of red chillies may cause indigestion and heartburn. Capsaisin, the chemical that makes chillies hot is known to reduce the risk of skin and stomach cancer. They contain more vitamin C than an orange. It also acts as a remedy for cold and sinus symptoms. It does not contain any cholesterol.
Caution
Red chili’s or red chili powder must be kept away from eyes, if comes in contact, it can even cause permanent damage and in some cases, even blindness.
Chili’s should not be consumed separately. The seeds of chili’s cause innumerable cuts on the tip of our tongue, it is these cuts which cause that burning sensation in the mouth.