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Many people approach spicy food with a simple question: “How hot is it?” But true chili enthusiasts know that there’s much more to the experience than just the level of heat. In Chinese cuisine, particularly in regions renowned for their spicy dishes, the concept of “heat” is multi-faceted, encompassing not only intensity but also the…
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When it comes to spicy food, many people think of a single, overwhelming sensation: the burn. But for those who truly appreciate the nuances of chili peppers, there’s a whole world of flavor beyond the heat. This is especially true in Chinese cuisine, where chili peppers are used not just for their spiciness, but also…
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uizhou Cuisine This dish exemplifies Guizhou’s love for sour and spicy flavors. The sourness comes from fermented ingredients like tomato and chili peppers, while a variety of spices adds complexity and depth. Ingredients: Instructions: This hot pot dish showcases Guizhou’s unique “zao la jiao” (fermented chili sauce), which has a funky, sour-spicy flavor that’s essential…
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Facing-heaven chilies (“Chaotian jiao”): These chilies are named for their upright growth habit, with the peppers pointing towards the sky. They are versatile chilies, used both fresh and dried, and are known for their moderate heat and fruity flavor. Facing-heaven chilies are often used in stir-fries, sauces, and pickled dishes. Some specific varieties of facing-heaven…
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Chili peppers have a unique ability to ignite our senses, delivering a fiery sensation that can range from a pleasant tingle to an intense burn. This sensation, known as pungency, is caused by a group of compounds called capsaicinoids, the most notable of which is capsaicin. Capsaicin: The Heat Molecule Capsaicin is a chemical…
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The chili pepper, a relative newcomer to China, has become deeply intertwined with the country’s culture, far beyond its role as a culinary ingredient. Introduced in the 16th century, this fiery fruit has permeated various aspects of Chinese life, influencing language, art, traditions, and even social interactions. Language and Identity The chili pepper’s influence…
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Chili peppers, those fiery fruits that add zest and excitement to cuisines around the world, belong to the genus Capsicum. This genus is a member of the Solanaceae family, which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and tobacco. While there are over 25 recognized Capsicum species, only five are widely cultivated. The Five Domesticated Species…
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The chili pepper, a cornerstone of many beloved Chinese dishes, has a surprisingly short but impactful history in the country. Unlike native spices like Sichuan peppercorns and ginger, used in Chinese cuisine for millennia, the chili pepper is a relative newcomer, having arrived only in the 16th century. Yet, in this short time, it has…