Ground Red Pepper
Description
Ground red pepper is a spice made from grinding dried red chili peppers. The peppers are typically from the species Capsicum annuum, which includes many common varieties such as cayenne and jalapeno. The spice is known for its hot and pungent flavor, which can range from mildly spicy to intensely hot depending on the type of pepper used. Ground red pepper is commonly used in cooking to add heat and depth to dishes. It is available in different grinds, from coarse flakes to a fine powder, and is used in both savory and sweet culinary applications.
Common uses
Ground red pepper is widely used in a variety of cuisines to add heat and flavor. It is commonly sprinkled over pizzas and pasta, stirred into soups and stews, and used as a seasoning for meats and vegetables. It also serves as a key ingredient in spice blends such as curry powders, chili powders, and barbecue rubs. In addition to culinary uses, ground red pepper can be found in certain topical creams for its warming properties.
Nutritional value
Calories
Ground red pepper is low in calories, with approximately 6 calories per teaspoon (2 grams).
Protein
It contains about 0.3 grams of protein per teaspoon.
Fat
Ground red pepper has a negligible amount of fat, with less than 0.1 grams per teaspoon.
Carbohydrates
It includes about 1 gram of carbohydrates per teaspoon, mostly from fiber.
Vitamins
It is a good source of Vitamin A, with a teaspoon providing about 15% of the recommended daily value.
Minerals
Ground red pepper also contains small amounts of minerals such as potassium and iron.
Health benefits
Ground red pepper is known for its capsaicin content, which has been linked to various health benefits including improved digestive health, reduced inflammation, and potential pain relief. Capsaicin also has metabolism-boosting properties, which may aid in weight loss efforts.
Potential risks
While ground red pepper offers various health benefits, excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, heartburn, or exacerbate certain conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. It is also important to handle it with care to avoid skin and eye irritation.
Common recipes
Ground red pepper is a versatile spice that can be found in a multitude of recipes, from the spicy kick of Mexican salsas to the warming flavors of Indian curries. It also adds a punch to dry rubs for meats and is a staple in many spice blends.
Cooking methods
The spice can be used in both dry and wet cooking methods, such as sautéing, baking, grilling, or boiling. It is often added at the beginning of the cooking process to infuse the dish with its heat and flavor.
Pairing with other ingredients
Ground red pepper pairs well with ingredients like garlic, onion, cumin, and oregano. It complements proteins such as beef, poultry, and fish, and can be used to spice up vegetables and legumes.
Summary
Ground red pepper is a hot and versatile spice that can be used to add both heat and flavor to a wide array of dishes. With its nutritional benefits and culinary flexibility, this ingredient has earned its place in kitchens around the world. Its heat level varies, so it should be used according to one's personal spice tolerance and preference.