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Cayenne Pepper

Capsicum annuum Allergen-Free
Cayenne Pepper

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae (Nightshade family)
  • Primary Cuisine Global (especially Mexican, Tex-Mex, Indian, Cajun, Creole)
  • Seasonality Year-Round (dried)
  • Source Cayenne chili peppers

The Forktionary Angle

"Controlling the heat level and enhancing other flavors with cayenne."

Definition

A hot chili pepper, typically dried and ground into a fine, reddish powder, known for its fiery heat and vibrant flavor, widely used as a spice.

Sensory Profile

TastePungent, Fiery Hot, Slightly Fruity, Earthy
TextureFine Powder
AromaSpicy, Pungent, Slightly Smoky
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Main Heat Compound

Capsaicin

Scoville Heat Units (SHU)

30,000 - 50,000

Usage as Digestive Aid

Traditional remedy

Nutrition Facts

Per 1/4 tsp (0.5g)
Calories318 kcal
Total Fat17 g
Saturated Fat3.2 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein12 g
Total Carbohydrate57 g
Dietary Fiber27 g
Total Sugars10 g
Calcium148 mg
Iron7.8 mg
Potassium2010 mg

Chef’s Secret

When working with cayenne pepper, add it incrementally and taste as you go, as its heat can intensify significantly during cooking. Always wash hands thoroughly afterward.

Substitutions

Best Match

Red Pepper Flakes

1:1

Provides similar heat and flavor, but with a coarser texture; good for topping pizzas, pasta.

Hot Paprika (Hungarian or Smoked)

1:1 (start with less)

Offers heat and color, often with smoky notes, but typically less intense than cayenne.

Chipotle Powder

1:1 (start with less)

Provides heat with a distinct smoky, earthy flavor; good for Mexican or BBQ dishes.

Fresh Chili (finely minced)

Varies (taste to adjust)

Adds fresh heat and flavor, plus moisture; good for sautés and fresh salsas.

Buying Guide

Choose bright red, finely ground cayenne. Store in an airtight container away from light and heat to preserve potency.

Flavor Pairings

Chicken beef pork eggs beans rice chocolate tomatoes onions garlic cumin paprika.

Recipes Using Cayenne Pepper

30 Minutes Or Less Summer Occasion Meat

Little Kick Jalapeno Burgers

Spice up your weeknight dinner with these healthy and flavorful Little Kick Jalapeño Turkey Burgers! A Taste of Home recipe, lightened up for a healthier twist without sacrificing deliciousness. These juicy turkey burgers are packed with jalapeño kick and topped with melted cheese – a family favorite that's quick and easy to make. Perfect for a summer BBQ or a satisfying weeknight meal!

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Sandwiches Occasion Preparation Main Ingredient

A Great Monte Cristo Sandwich Longmeadow

Indulge in this decadent Longmeadow twist on the classic Monte Cristo sandwich! Adapted from a Clean Eating magazine recipe (Sept 2009), this recipe offers a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors. Crispy, golden-brown bread envelops savory ham, melted Gruyère cheese, and a hint of sweetness, all perfectly complemented by a tangy berry dipping sauce. Prepare for a truly unforgettable gourmet sandwich experience!

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African Beef Main Dish Meat

African Style Shish Kebab

Experience a vibrant taste of Africa with this exciting shish kebab recipe! Marinated in a zesty blend of yogurt, lemon, and herbs, succulent lamb, beef, or chicken is grilled to perfection alongside colorful vegetables. Serve with fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend barbecue.

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Chicken Course Chicken Breasts Easy

Angie's Spicy Chicken Strips

Craving a fast, flavorful, and family-friendly dinner? Angie's Spicy Chicken Strips are the perfect solution! This recipe is quick to make, easy to follow, and delivers crispy, juicy chicken strips with a satisfying kick. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual lunch, these strips are always a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience a burst of flavor in just 30 minutes!

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Southern United States Taste Mood Time To Make Course

Anti Seafood Jambalaya

Craving the rich flavors of New Orleans jambalaya but not a fan of seafood? This recipe delivers an authentic Cajun experience without the shellfish! Enjoy succulent chicken and savory sausage simmered in a spicy tomato broth with fluffy rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering.

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Low Cholesterol Main Ingredient Asian Low Protein

Baba Ghanouj Roast Eggplant Puree

Experience the smoky, creamy delight of homemade Baba Ghanoush! This irresistible recipe, inspired by SallyBernstein.com, elevates the classic eggplant dip to new heights. Perfectly roasted eggplant, vibrant lemon, and nutty tahini combine for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Easy to follow instructions guide you to a restaurant-quality dip in under 2 hours. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or a flavorful side dish!

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Black Beans Black Beans Low Calorie Time To Make

Banders Black Bean Soup

This quick and easy black bean soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights! Made with canned beans for ultimate convenience, you can customize the spice level to your liking. Enjoy a hearty and flavorful soup that's easily adaptable to vegetarian/vegan diets by simply swapping out the bacon for soy bacon bits and using vegetable broth. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal in under an hour!

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Low Carb Vegetables Low In Something 4 Hours Or Less

Barbecue Sauce For Canning

This award-winning barbecue sauce recipe, a family heirloom passed down through generations, is incredibly versatile! Perfect for canning and long-term storage, it's your secret weapon for unbelievably tender and flavorful chicken, pork, and more. Use it for braising, baking, grilling, or broiling – the possibilities are endless! Get ready to elevate your BBQ game with this rich, smoky, and tangy sauce.

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To Go Kwanzaa Pork Ribs Occasion

Barbecued Baby Back Ribs

Experience the legendary barbecue of Kansas City with Paul Kirk's award-winning baby back ribs recipe! Perfect for Labor Day or any special occasion, these fall-off-the-bone ribs are tender, juicy, and bursting with smoky flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering masterpiece from the Baron of Barbecue himself!

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Meat Main Ingredient High Protein Course

Barbecued Pulled Pork

Fall-apart tender, mouthwatering barbecued pulled pork that's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! This easy crockpot recipe is perfect for picnics, parties, or a weeknight family dinner. Even pork skeptics will be raving about this amazing dish, made with a homemade BBQ sauce (recipe included!). Get ready for tender, juicy pork infused with smoky flavor.

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Southwestern United States Southwestern United States Poultry Time To Make

Baton Rouge Chicken

This fiery Baton Rouge Chicken recipe delivers explosive flavor in just 18 minutes! Inspired by a healthy meals card, this recipe uses a homemade spice blend to create a crispy, blackened crust on juicy chicken. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

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To Go Low Carb Poultry Course

Baton Rouge Chicken Wings

These easy Baton Rouge chicken wings are perfect for your next gathering! A flavorful marinade infuses juicy chicken wings with irresistible Cajun zest. Get ready for rave reviews – they're that good! (Prep time: 2 hours, plus 150 minutes cooking time)

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Course Course For Large Groups Preparation

Bbq Peanuts

These addictive BBQ peanuts taste just like your favorite chips! Crispy, sweet, and smoky, they're the perfect party snack or satisfying treat. Easy to make in under an hour!

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Healthy Occasion Time To Make Healthy

Bbq Rub

Elevate your BBQ game with this fiery BBQ rub, inspired by Chris Schlesinger's recipe! I've tweaked it for a spicier kick by increasing the cayenne pepper. This easy-to-make blend is perfect for ribs, chicken, brisket, and more. Get ready for mouthwatering flavor!

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3 Steps Or Less Course Sauces Dietary

Bbq Sauce Dairy Free

Whip up this easy, delicious dairy-free BBQ sauce in just 20 minutes! Perfect for grilling season, this recipe delivers smoky, tangy flavor without any dairy. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this homemade masterpiece.

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Savory Dinner Party Preparation Main Dish

Beer Marinated Grilled New York Strip Steaks With Pepper Sauce

Experience a flavor explosion with these perfectly grilled New York strip steaks! Marinated for 24 hours in a zesty beer marinade, then seared to perfection on the grill. The rich and decadent peppercorn sauce adds the perfect finishing touch. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. Get ready for juicy, tender steaks with a sophisticated, unforgettable flavor!

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Summer Healthy Main Ingredient Fish

Bek's Grilled Mahi Mahi Fillets In Soy Ginger Marinade Oamc

Savor the summer with this delightful Asian-inspired grilled Mahi Mahi recipe! Our mild soy ginger marinade perfectly complements the delicate flavor of the fish, creating a vibrant and refreshing dish. This recipe is easily adaptable – feel free to experiment with different mild fish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated summer barbecue. Pro-tip from Chef Bek S: Double or triple the marinade and freeze portions for future culinary adventures!

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Dinner Party Time To Make Main Dish Preparation

Chicken With Dates And Moroccan Spices

Experience a taste of Marrakech with this succulent Chicken with Dates and Moroccan Spices recipe! Tender chicken pieces are braised to perfection in a rich, fragrant sauce of warming spices, sweet Medjool dates, and zesty lemon. Served alongside fluffy couscous to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend meal.

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