Cooking with Fresh Chili Peppers
The different types of chili peppers range from mild to incendiary, so substitute with care! But even when they are the same type, the amount of “heat” can vary greatly from pepper to pepper.
The different types of chili peppers range from mild to incendiary, so substitute with care! But even when they are the same type, the amount of “heat” can vary greatly from pepper to pepper. If you simply follow the amount called for in the recipe, you can end up with a dish that’s either too spicy or not spicy enough. When adding fresh chili peppers to a recipe, add about half of what’s called for and taste the dish, gradually adding more until you get the level of heat you desire.
You can also adjust the amount of spice by removing (or leaving in) some of the white membranes and seeds in the peppers–that’s where most of the heat resides. And, of course, take care to wash your hands thoroughly after handling peppers and avoid touching your eyes.
Chili Peppers image courtesy of Shutterstock
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.
