Chilli Padi (Malaysia) 小辣椒

Shelf life: 6 Days

Chilli padi, also known as bird's eye chilli or Thai chilli, is a small but potent chili pepper commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine. Here's how you can use chilli padi and some of its potential benefits:

Usage:

1. Cooking:

   • Chop or slice chilli padi and add it to your dishes for a spicy kick. It's commonly used in stir-fries, curries, soups, and sauces.
   • You can also blend chilli padi into sauces, marinades, or sambals for added heat and flavor.
   • Use it sparingly as it is very spicy, and the heat level can vary depending on the individual pepper.

2. Pickling:

   • Chilli padi can be pickled in vinegar and used as a condiment to add heat and acidity to dishes.

3. Dried or Powdered:

   • Dried chilli padi can be ground into a powder and used as a seasoning for various dishes.

4. Infusions:

   • You can infuse chilli padi into oils or vinegars to add flavor and heat.

Benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Chilli padi contains antioxidants like vitamin C, which can help fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

2. Metabolism Boost: The capsaicin in chilli padi is believed to increase metabolism, promoting fat burning and weight loss when consumed in moderation.

3. Pain Relief: Capsaicin may also act as a natural pain reliever when applied topically. It's often used in creams or patches to alleviate muscle or joint pain.

4. Heart Health: Some research suggests that capsaicin may help lower blood pressure and improve heart health by promoting circulation and reducing inflammation.

5. Boosts Immunity: The high vitamin C content in chilli padi can help boost the immune system, aiding in the body's defense against infections and illnesses.

6. Improved Digestion: Spicy foods like chilli padi can stimulate the production of digestive juices, promoting better digestion and nutrient absorption.

Precautions:

• Chilli padi can be extremely spicy, so it's important to use it in moderation, especially if you're not accustomed to spicy foods.
• Avoid contact with sensitive areas like eyes and mucous membranes when handling chilli padi, as it can cause irritation.
• If you have a sensitive stomach or digestive issues, be cautious when consuming spicy foods like chilli padi, as they may exacerbate symptoms.

Incorporating chilli padi into your diet can add flavor and spice while potentially offering various health benefits, but it's essential to use it responsibly and according to your own tolerance level.