Love it or hate it you simply cannot ignore the chili pepper! It is not an addictive ingredient, but it gives the body an endomorphic boost which if you can stand the heat leaves you with a feeling of euphoria.
What is a Chili Pepper
It is a fruit from the Capsicum plants. Yes, that’s right they are a fruit, not a vegetable. They are part of the “Nightshade Solanaceae” family and related to tomatoes, eggplant, and even cherries.
The chili pepper was first grown in South America but now found throughout the world. The many varieties differ in size, and strength of flavor.
History records that the ancient South American civilizations of the Aztecs used chilies as currency.
Strength of Flavor.
The Scoville scale measures the heat of a pepper. The measurements are indicated as SHU. (Scoville Heat Units). The array of pepper heat shown by a Scoville score is from 100 or less (sweet peppers) to over 3 million.
Description Chili Peppers.
There are over 2500 different varieties of chili grown throughout the world. New hybrids varieties are being introduced every couple of months. Listed below are a few examples of popular types.
Mild Chili Peppers
Anaheim Chili Pepper SHU500-2000
This pepper is the most widely used one in the United States. It is a mild pepper which grows to a length of 6 inches. The basic variety is green and ripens to a red.
Bell Pepper (SHU 500- 1000)
These are a sweet bell-shaped pepper with little to no heat. They are available in red, green and yellow varieties.
Medium Chili Peppers
Jalapeno peppers (SHU3000-10 000 )
Mature Jalapeno pepper is about 2-4 inches long and used when green. Popular when preparing Jalapeno Poppers and often served stuffed and grilled. They are also delicious slightly pickled and sliced on top of Nachos.
Serrano Peppers (SHU 10000–23000)
This pepper is a hotter option than Jalapenos. It is used to make salsa and hot sauces. This is a useful chili pepper to add to milder varieties if you want to spice up the sauce.
Hot Peppers.
Habanero Pepper (SHU 100,000–350,000)
The habanero named after the Cuban city of Havana is a hot variety of pepper and is commonly orange and red. It is popular because, not only has it a strong heat but is full of flavor and aroma. Normally sliced and features in recipes for hot sauces and salad dressings.
Carolina Reaper(SHU 2,200,000)
It is one of the hottest peppers in the world. It is red and gnarled with a small pointed tail.The initial bite is slightly sweetish then the molten lava kicks in!
Uses for Chilies.
Culinary
Chili peppers are widely used around the world to add spice and heat to dishes. We introduce the chili into a wide variety of meals and sauces. In the States, the word Chili is synonymous with Chili Con Carne a spicy dish made from chili, red beans, tomato, and mince. Other chili food items to enjoy are chili chocolate, chili ice cream, and even chili beer.
Health
Capsicum has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. They have made claims that this wonder product can assist with blood circulation, digestive problems, and weight loss.
Self Defence
Oleoresin Capsicum extracted from Red Hot Chili Peppers is the active ingredient in pepper spray.
Insect Control
They often use chili as a natural pesticide. Sprinkle the powder around the base of plants to repel ants, cutworms, slugs, and snails.
Decoration
String together red, yellow and green chilies. Once dried these are used as Ristras wreathes to decorate kitchens and restaurants.
Experiment with chilies in your home. It’s possible to build up a tolerance so never be afraid to try. If it gets too much don’t drink water it will only spread the fire around your mouth! Rather try milk or sugar !
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