Chilli Powder

Chilli powder, also known as "Lal Mirch" in Hindi, is a staple in Indian cooking and is used to add heat and flavour to dishes. It is made from ground dried chilli peppers and can range in heat from mild to extremely hot. It is one of the most commonly used spices in Indian cuisine and is an essential ingredient in many dishes.

In Indian cooking, chilli powder is used in a variety of dishes including curries, dals, and meat-based dishes. It is also used in marinades, rubs, and pickles. The heat and flavour of chilli powder can be adjusted to suit individual tastes. It can be used alone or in combination with other spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric to create unique flavour profiles.

One of the most popular ways of using chilli powder in Indian cuisine is by adding it to oil or ghee while tempering the spices. This is known as "Tadka" in Hindi and is a technique used to infuse the oil or ghee with the flavours of the spices. The addition of chilli powder to the oil or ghee adds a depth of flavour and a spicy kick to the dish.

In addition to savoury dishes, chilli powder is also used in Indian sweet dishes such as Ras Malai, a sweet, creamy dessert made with cottage cheese dumplings. It can also be used to make a traditional Indian drink called "Masala chai," which adds a spicy kick to the tea.

Chilli powder is also used to make a variety of traditional Indian pickles, such as achar, which are made with a mix of vegetables and spices. In this case, the chilli powder is added to the pickling liquid and is left in the jar for several days to infuse its flavour into the pickles.

Chilli powder is not only used for its flavour but also for its health benefits, it contains capsaicin which is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound found in chilli peppers that may have health benefits, including reducing pain and inflammation.

Overall, chilli powder is a versatile spice that adds heat and flavour to many Indian dishes and is considered a staple in traditional Indian cuisine. It is used in a variety of dishes, from curries, dals, marinades, rubs, sweet dishes, drinks and pickles. Its heat level can be adjusted to suit individual tastes and can be used alone or in combination with other spices to create unique flavour profiles.