Cayenne

Cayenne is widely used in cooking to add heat and depth to dishes. It is often found in spice blends, marinades, sauces, and as a seasoning for meats, seafood, and vegetable dishes.

A teaspoon (about 5 grams) of cayenne pepper contains approximately 17 calories.

Cayenne provides about 0.6 grams of protein per teaspoon.

There is a negligible amount of fat in cayenne pepper, with only 0.9 grams per teaspoon.

A teaspoon of cayenne pepper has around 3 grams of carbohydrates.

Cayenne is rich in vitamins, especially vitamin A, with 44% of the Daily Value (DV) per teaspoon. It also contains small amounts of vitamins E, C, and B6.

The spice contains minerals like potassium, manganese, and a small amount of magnesium.

Cayenne pepper is associated with several health benefits, including boosting metabolism, reducing hunger, and aiding in digestive health. Capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne, is also believed to have pain-relieving properties.

While cayenne pepper has health benefits, excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal distress, and it should be used with caution by individuals with sensitive digestive systems or pepper allergies.

Common recipes using cayenne include spicy sauces, chili, Cajun and Creole dishes, hot chicken wings, and soups. It's also used to spice up cocktails and chocolates.

Cayenne can be added directly to dishes while cooking, or sprinkled on as a finishing spice. It's compatible with a variety of cooking methods including baking, grilling, sautéing, and simmering.

Cayenne pairs well with meats, seafood, beans, lentils, and cheese. It also complements other spices like garlic, cumin, and paprika.

Cayenne pepper is a versatile spice with a moderate heat level, rich in flavor and health benefits. It is used worldwide in various dishes, and its nutritional content adds value to any meal. Whether measured in teaspoons or grams, a little cayenne goes a long way in both seasoning and health properties.