Just in time for a sizzling summer! Chiles are a signature addition to many delicious international cuisines. They add instant flavour and warmth to your dish, but also pack a nutritious punch, too. They are full of antioxidants, rich in immune-boosting vitamins, and help lower cholesterol. And, when the weather is warm, they can make you feel a little cooler by raising your internal temperature (and making you sweat!).
Did you know that chipotle peppers are just jalapeño peppers that have been smoked and dried? Likewise, ancho peppers are dried poblano peppers. There is a wide variety of chiles to choose from out there, and each type will provide a completely different type of flavour and level of heat to your cooking.
When it comes to heat, the general rule is this: the smaller the chile, the hotter they are. Those craving extra heat should opt for habanero peppers or scotch bonnets. When the heat gets to be too much, what can you do? One thing that is relatively agreed upon is that water is not the best option. Instead, you should reach for milk, liquor, or something absorbent like bread.
It is important to use extreme caution when handling these fiery ingredients. Wash your hands immediately afterwards and avoid touching your eyes.
This week, we are looking to expand our culinary horizons and discover great new recipes including chiles as the ingredient of the week.
Here’s what we’ll be cooking up:
- Black Bean Soup with Cumin and Jalapeño {Epicurious}
- Chile Verde Con Cerdo (Green Chili With Pork) {Food.com}
- Haitian Stewed Chicken {Savour.com}
We hope you’ll join us in sharing your favourite recipes below, and trying something new along with us! Please share in the comments section below.
