Cayenne

Capsicum annuum Spice, Herb, Chili

Cayenne Spice, Herb, Chili

At a Glance

  • Category Spice, Herb, Chili

The Forktionary Angle

"The versatile heat-bringer that awakens palates and adds a subtle red hue."

Definition

A moderately hot chili pepper powder, derived from ground dried red cayenne peppers, widely used to add spicy heat to dishes.

Active Compound Capsaicin
Common Forms Ground powder, flakes
Scoville Heat Units 30,000-50,000 SHU

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cayenne are:

Pungent Fiery Earthy

Chef’s Secret

A tiny pinch of cayenne in sweet dishes like chocolate cake or hot cocoa can surprisingly enhance the depth of flavor without overtly making it spicy.

Best Substitutes

Paprika

smoked or hot, , less heat for regular paprika
Ratio 1:1

chili powder

blend of spices
Ratio 1:1

red pepper flakes

coarser texture
Ratio 1:1

habanero powder

much hotter
Ratio 1:4

Buying Guide

Purchase in small quantities and store in an airtight container away from light to preserve potency.

Recipes Using Cayenne

Dietary Green Yellow Beans Inexpensive Dinner Party

Achingya Thoren Kerala Style Green Bean Curry

Experience the vibrant flavors of Kerala with this authentic Achingya Thoren! This dry curry features tender green beans, fragrant coconut, and a delightful blend of spices. A perfect side dish for rice or roti, this recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with the aromatic essence of South India. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this simple yet incredibly flavorful Kerala specialty!

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60 Minutes Or Less Vegan Dietary Low In Something

African Millet Salad With Corn And Peppers

Discover the vibrant flavors of Africa with this exciting millet salad! This recipe, inspired by "The New Whole Grains Cookbook," elevates the ancient grain with aromatic spices and a zesty lemon-peanut dressing. The perfectly cooked millet (easily substituted with couscous or rice for faster prep) is tossed with sweet corn, crisp bell peppers, and fresh parsley. A quick saute ensures fluffy, flavorful grains, perfect for a light lunch, vibrant side dish, or a unique dinner option. Get ready for a taste of sunshine!

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Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Soups Stews Preparation

African Peanut Soup With Mustard Greens

This award-winning African Peanut Soup recipe, featuring vibrant mustard greens, is a flavor explosion! Inspired by a beloved magazine recipe and perfected at a potluck (where it disappeared in minutes!), this hearty soup boasts a rich peanut butter base, tender vegetables, and a hint of warming spice. Easily adjustable for spice preference, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressive potluck contribution. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Low In Something Course 15 Minutes Or Less Diabetic

All Purpose Bbq Rub

Elevate your grilling game with this simple yet sensational All-Purpose BBQ Rub, straight from *Food and Drink* magazine! This versatile blend is perfect for ribs, chicken, pork, and more. Keeps for at least six months in an airtight container, ensuring you're always ready for a BBQ feast. Get ready to experience flavor explosions!

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Healthy Indian Course Low In Something

Alu Patras Fried Spicy Potato Swirls

Crispy, golden Alu Patras – spicy potato swirls – are a delightful Indian snack! These savory pastries are filled with a flavorful potato mixture and then fried to perfection. Serve hot with tamarind chutney for an unforgettable taste experience. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a unique side dish.

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Dietary Low In Something Soy Tofu Time To Make

Apricot Orange Barbecued Tofu

Sweet and savory perfection! This Apricot Orange Barbecued Tofu recipe delivers a burst of sunshine to your plate. Inspired by the classic flavors of 'Tofu Cookery,' this recipe boasts a harmonious blend of sweet apricots, tangy oranges, and smoky barbecue, creating an unforgettable taste sensation. Impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, yet restaurant-worthy dish! Ready in just 40 minutes.

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Course Main Ingredient Casseroles Asparagus

Asparagus And Penne Casserole

This dreamy Asparagus and Penne Casserole is a make-ahead masterpiece! Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with fresh asparagus, this comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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African Easy Course Cuisine

Avocado With Groundnut Dressing

Experience a taste of Ghana with this vibrant and easy-to-make avocado salad! The creamy avocado is perfectly complemented by a crunchy, spicy groundnut dressing. Customize the heat to your liking with sweet or hot paprika and cayenne pepper. This quick and flavorful recipe is perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer. Get ready for a complex flavor explosion in just 10 minutes!

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Kid Friendly Chicken Preparation Meat

Awesome Cajun Chicken Wings

🔥 Ignite your taste buds with these insanely delicious Cajun chicken wings! Perfect for game day, parties, or a weeknight treat, this recipe is a family favorite that always disappears fast. Grilled to perfection and served with crisp celery and creamy blue cheese, these spicy wings are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters will gobble them up! Get ready for the ultimate flavor explosion!

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Time To Make Course Preparation 4 Hours Or Less

Baked Carrots With Caramelized Onions

Indulge in the sweet and savory perfection of these Baked Carrots with Caramelized Onions! This recipe, a holiday favorite, features large carrots perfectly roasted alongside deeply caramelized onions. It's easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to impress. Inspired by a family favorite, this recipe delivers a comforting and delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.

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Eggs Dairy Cheese Italian Course

Baked Pasta With Asparagus Lemon And Mascarpone

Creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible! This baked pasta dish elevates simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Tender fettuccine, bright asparagus, zesty lemon, and rich mascarpone cheese create a symphony of flavors in every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Dietary Main Ingredient Seafood Course

Baked Salmon With Lemon Oregano Crumb Topping

Flaky, juicy salmon baked to perfection under a crispy lemon oregano crumb topping! This easy 35-minute recipe is a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Elevate your salmon game with this flavorful and satisfying dish – perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal.

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Seasonal Main Ingredient Vegetables Taste Mood

Baked Winter Squash Soup

Warm up on a chilly evening with this comforting Baked Winter Squash Soup! Inspired by a recipe from Jodi Moore of Bellingham, Washington, this creamy soup is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quiet night in. Imagine the aroma of roasted squash and warming spices filling your kitchen as you savor each delicious spoonful. This recipe features the perfect balance of sweet and savory, creating a truly unforgettable winter treat.

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Low Carb Main Ingredient Preparation Meat

Beef Stew In Berbere Sauce

Transport your taste buds to Ethiopia with this rich and flavorful beef stew! Inspired by Sunset Magazine's March 2006 recipe, this dish boasts exotic spices and a warming berbere sauce. Easily adjust the spice level to your preference – reduce cayenne pepper for a milder version. For an authentic twist, substitute Ethiopian Tej honey wine (or mead) for the red wine, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Prepare for a culinary adventure that's both comforting and unforgettable!

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Meat Main Ingredient Course Main Dish

Beer Can Chicken With Memphis Rub

Unlock the secrets to unbelievably juicy and flavorful beer can chicken! This recipe features a mouthwatering Memphis-style dry rub and detailed instructions for both gas and charcoal grills. Impress your friends and family with this Bon Appetit-inspired masterpiece, perfect for backyard barbecues or a special weeknight dinner. Get ready for tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken bursting with smoky flavor.

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Dinner Party Equipment Preparation Main Ingredient

Best Bar Nuts

Score a touchdown with these irresistible rosemary-cayenne bar nuts! Perfect for your next football party or game night, these addictive nuts are tossed in a fragrant rosemary-brown sugar butter mixture with a hint of spicy cayenne. Inspired by Union Square Cafe, these are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser served alongside ice-cold beer. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Main Ingredient Equipment Meat American

Bourbon Glazed Cajun Tenderloin

Fire up your Weber grill for this incredible Bourbon Glazed Cajun Tenderloin! This recipe, inspired by Weber's Big Book of Grilling, delivers a juicy, tenderloin with a spicy Cajun kick and a rich bourbon glaze. Marinate for 8-24 hours for maximum flavor. This recipe uses both direct and indirect heat for perfectly seared and cooked tenderloin.

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Dietary Hanukkah Preparation Fruit

Pumpkin Peanut Soup

Indulge in this unexpectedly delightful Pumpkin Peanut Butter Soup! The creamy richness of peanut butter and coconut milk, blended with sweet pumpkin puree, creates an elegant and surprisingly simple first course or light meal. Served in a stunning hollowed-out pumpkin for an unforgettable presentation. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in!

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