Chilli Powder: The Spicy Essence of Global Cuisines
Chilli powder is a vibrant red-orange spice made from dried and ground red chillies, lending heat, color, and depth to dishes. It varies in flavor, spice level, and composition based on the type of chillies used.
Types of Chilli Powder
- Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder – Mild heat, deep red color (used for vibrant hue in Indian curries).
- Cayenne Pepper – Medium-hot, common in Western & Mexican cooking.
- Paprika (Hungarian/Spanish) – Smoky or sweet, mild heat.
- Thai Bird’s Eye Chilli Powder – Extremely spicy.
- Byadgi Chilli Powder (Indian) – Mild with rich color.
- Chipotle Powder – Smoky, medium heat (made from dried jalapeños).
Flavor & Culinary Uses
- Heat Level: Ranges from mild (Kashmiri) to fiery (Bird’s Eye).
- Common Uses:
✔ Curries & Stews (Indian, Mexican, Thai).
✔ Marinades & Rubs (BBQ, tandoori, Tex-Mex).
✔ Sprinkled on Snacks (popcorn, fries, chaat).
✔ Sauces & Dips (hot sauce, salsa, chutney).
Health Benefits
- Metabolism Booster (capsaicin aids fat burning).
- Rich in Vitamin C & Antioxidants.
- May Reduce Inflammation (in moderation).
- Pain Relief (used in topical creams).
DIY vs. Store-Bought
- Homemade: Fresher, customizable heat (grind dried chillies + cumin/coriander).
- Store-Bought: Convenient but may contain additives (check labels).
Tip: Store in an airtight container away from light to preserve potency.
Caution: Overuse can cause stomach irritation—balance with cooling ingredients (yogurt, coconut milk).
