Cayenne Pepper Powder

• Premium quality non-smoked cayenne pepper powder, you will taste the difference.
• Lightning-fast shipping time, we will ship your order in under 2 business days. Most orders ship the same day or the very next business day.
• Gluten-Free, 100% pure, no additives.
• Ships in a high-quality spice jar with a sealed sifter flip cap.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cayenne Peppers

What are cayenne peppers?

Cayenne peppers, from the Capsicum annuum species, are known for their heat and it's flavor profile. They are long, skinny, red when ripe, and can be used fresh, dried, or powdered. Ground cayenne is a popular spice for adding heat to dishes and is a key ingredient in many seasoning blends and hot sauces. Beyond their culinary use, cayenne peppers are valued for health benefits related to their capsaicin content.

Is cayenne good for you?

Cayenne pepper, rich in capsaicin, offers health benefits like boosting metabolism, aiding digestion, and potentially reducing pain and inflammation. It might also contribute to heart health by managing blood pressure and cholesterol, and has antioxidant properties. However, its benefits should be balanced with caution due to the individual's heat tolerance. Overconsumption can lead to digestive issues or exacerbate conditions like GERD. As with any spice, moderation and consideration of personal health conditions are crucial when adding cayenne to your diet.

Are cayenne peppers spicy?

Cayenne pepper is indeed spicy, with a heat range of 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), making it hotter than jalapeños but less intense than habaneros. It offers a straightforward, earthy flavor focused primarily on heat. Compared to chipotle, which is smoky, or ancho, which is sweet, cayenne's flavor is more singular. Its heat is similar to that of Tabasco but is much hotter than paprika. Cayenne's versatility in adding spice without significantly affecting flavor makes it a common choice for enhancing dishes. However, its potency means it should be used in moderation when substituting for milder peppers.

Does cayenne replace red pepper flakes?

Cayenne pepper can substitute for red pepper flakes, but it's generally hotter, so use less; start with about half the amount. Red pepper flakes provide texture and a visual component that cayenne, when ground, does not. If the recipe benefits from the flakes' appearance, consider using both or adding another ingredient for texture. Flavor profiles might differ, as cayenne focuses on heat while red pepper flakes can offer a more complex taste.

What recipes are cayenne peppers typically used in?

Cayenne peppers are a key ingredient in many recipes, adding heat to dishes like chili con carne, hot sauces, and Cajun cuisine such as Jambalaya and Gumbo. They're used in spice rubs for meats, enhancing the flavor of barbecued or grilled foods. Cayenne is also found in salsas, curries, soups, and even in some baked goods like cornbread for a spicy twist. It's a common addition to Bloody Marys, marinades, and spicy nuts, contributing to their zesty profile. Its versatility makes cayenne a staple in both savory and surprisingly in some sweet dishes.

What is the most interesting thing about cayenne peppers?

The most intriguing aspect of cayenne peppers is capsaicin, their heat-giving compound, which has unique medicinal properties like pain relief from conditions like arthritis or neuropathy. NASA has researched capsaicin for reducing sinus congestion in space, demonstrating its unexpected applications. Capsaicin also boosts metabolism, potentially aiding in weight management. Culturally, cayenne peppers have impacted global cuisines since their introduction from the Americas. Their ability to cause a "pain overload" phenomenon has therapeutic implications, making them more than just a spice.