Chilli is a fruit which belongs to ‘Capsicum genus’. Chilli fruit when ripened and dried becomes red chilli, which is further grounded to form red chilli powder. These are categorized as hot pepper. Red chilli became famous all around the world because of its characteristics like pungency, taste and flavour matched black pepper, which was very expensive during old times and thus it became one of the most important and integral spices.
Apart from its uses in cooking, it has medicinal uses as well. It helps in digestion, it develops blood and is a very rich source of vitamin C, which helps in developing the immune system. It is used as a spray weapon also for keeping away attackers and mobsters. They are an excellent source of vitamin C but excess use of red chillies may cause indigestion and heartburn. ‘Capsaisin’, the chemical that makes chillies hot is known to reduce the risk of skin and stomach cancer. They contain more vitamin C than an orange. It also acts as a remedy for cold and sinus symptoms. It does not contain any cholesterol.
Major chilli growing countries are India, China, Ethiopia, Myanmar, Mexico, Vietnam, Peru, Pakistan, Ghana, and Bangladesh. These countries produce approximately 85% of the total red chilli in the world. The “Bhut Jolokia” is the spiciest red chilli in the world. It is grown in Assam and Nagaland. India is the largest producer of red chillies.
Dried red pepper may be used whole or powdered. As the name suggests it is red in colour and can be consumed as it is or can be broken down and made into a powder. It is really spicy and the intense heat is concentrated in the seeds. Fresh red chillies are milder.
Red chilli’s are usually grounded into a powder and used as a spice. Red chilli’s are dried or pickled in order to store them for a long period of time. It is a popular ingredient in most Indian dishes and curries. Red chilli’s are also used extensively for making sauces which are used to add spice to other dishes.
Caution: Red chilli’s or red chili powder must be kept away from eyes, if comes in contact, it can even cause permanent damage and in some cases, even blindness. Chilli’s should not be consumed separately. The seeds of chili’s cause innumerable cuts on the tip of our tongue, it is these cuts which cause that burning sensation in the mouth.
B&B Organics Red Chilli Powder, 250 Grams – https://www.amazon.in/Organics-Red-Chilli-Powder-Grams/dp/B07P71QVQN?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1&psc=1
B&B Organics Dried Chilli, 1 kg – https://www.amazon.in/Organics-Dried-Chilli-1kg/dp/B01N8VJW8F?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1&psc=1