Chilli, Ground, 50g

Chilli, Ground, 50g

Ground chilli, also known as chilli powder or ground red chilli, is made by grinding dried chilli peppers into a fine powder. It captures the heat and earthy flavour of the pepper, making it a versatile and intense spice. Ground chilli can come from a variety of peppers, such as cayenne, jalapeño, serrano, or bird’s eye, each contributing its own level of heat and flavour profile.

Flavour Profile:

• Taste: Spicy, pungent, and slightly smoky, depending on the pepper used.
• Heat: The heat level can vary from mild to extremely hot, depending on the type of chilli pepper ground into the powder.

Common Uses for Ground Chilli in Cooking

1. Seasoning Savoury Dishes:

• Curries and Stews: Ground chilli is a key ingredient in many curry powders, masalas, and spice blends, adding heat to dishes like chicken curry, chilli con carne, or lentil daal.
• Soups and Sauces: Adds warmth and depth to tomato-based sauces, broths, and soups, such as chilli soup or tomato soup.
• Meats and Fish: Used in marinades, rubs, or sprinkled on grilled or roasted meats like chicken, pork, or fish for an added spicy kick.
• Vegetables: Adds heat to sautéed, roasted, or grilled vegetables, particularly in Mediterranean, Indian, and Mexican cuisines.

2. Spice Blends:

• Chilli Powder Mixes: Ground chilli is often part of spice blends such as garam masala, chilli powder, cajun seasoning, or taco seasoning.
• BBQ Rubs: A crucial component of BBQ rubs, particularly for meats like ribs, brisket, and pulled pork.

3. Snacks and Street Food:

• Popcorn: A sprinkle of ground chilli over popcorn adds a spicy twist.
• Potato Chips: Tossed onto crisps or roasted nuts for added heat and flavour.
• Street Food: Used in dishes like spicy nachos, spicy fries, or chili-salted peanuts.

4. Beverages:

• Hot Drinks: Ground chilli is sometimes added to hot drinks like spiced hot chocolate, chai tea, or Mexican hot chocolate for a warming, spicy kick.
• Cocktails: Adds spice to drinks like bloody marys, margaritas, or spicy margaritas.

5. Condiments:

• Salsas and Sauces: Ground chilli is a key ingredient in many hot sauces, salsas, and spicy condiments.
• Chilli Oil: Infusing oil with ground chilli creates a spicy oil for drizzling on pizzas, pasta, and noodles.

Health Benefits of Ground Chilli:

1. Boosts Metabolism: Contains capsaicin, which can increase metabolism and promote fat burning.
2. Rich in Vitamin C: Chilli peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, supporting immune health.
3. Digestive Aid: Capsaicin stimulates digestive enzymes and can help improve digestion.
4. Pain Relief: Often used in topical creams for its pain-relieving properties due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
5. Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation and prevent cell damage.