Red pepper flakes

Red pepper flakes or crushed red pepper is a condiment consisting of dried and crushed (as opposed to ground) red chili peppers. This condiment is most often produced from cayenne-type peppers, although commercial producers may use a variety of different cultivars, usually within the 30,000–50,000 Scoville unit range.

History

The use of red pepper flakes is believed to date back to ancient civilizations, where they were used not only for culinary purposes but also for medicinal uses. The Aztecs were known to have used chili peppers in various remedies for ailments such as toothaches and sore throats.

Production

Red pepper flakes are made by drying and crushing red chili peppers. The peppers are typically harvested when they are red, or ripe. They are then dried either in the sun, in a dehydrator, or by smoking, which gives them a unique flavor. Once dried, the peppers are crushed to create the flakes.

Culinary Uses

Red pepper flakes are commonly used in Italian, Asian, and Mexican dishes. They are often used as a table condiment to be sprinkled onto foods for those who prefer a spicier taste. They are also used in cooking to add heat and flavor to dishes such as pizza, pasta, and stir-fry.

Health Benefits

Red pepper flakes are known to have several health benefits. They are a rich source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, both of which are essential for good health. They also contain capsaicin, a compound that is known to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

See Also

• Cayenne pepper
• Chili pepper
• Paprika
• Pepperoncini