Spice, Vegetable | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Chilies

Capsicum annuum Allergen-Free
chilies

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Late Summer to Fall (fresh), Year-Round (dried/powdered)
  • Source Capsicum plants

What Is Chilies?

The fruit of plants from the Capsicum genus, known for their varying levels of pungency, flavor, and culinary uses as a spice or vegetable.

"Beyond the burn: understanding the nuanced flavor profiles and aromatic contributions of different chili varieties."

What Does Chilies Taste Like?

Spicy, Pungent, Fruity, Smoky, Earthy (varies greatly by type)

Taste
Spicy, Pungent, Sweet, Fruity, Smoky, Earthy (highly variable)
Texture
Crisp (fresh), Chewy (dried), Meaty, Soft
Aroma
Pungent, Spicy, Fruity, Grassy, Smoky
Acidity
Low

Technical Metrics

Global Production

~35 million tons/year

Primary Pungent Compound

Capsaicin

Pungency Measurement

Scoville Heat Units (SHU)

Nutrition Facts

Per 15g (1 medium chili)
Calories40 kcal
Total Fat0.4 g
Saturated Fat0.0 g
Trans Fat0.0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.9 g
Total Carbohydrate8.8 g
Dietary Fiber1.5 g
Total Sugars5.3 g
Calcium18 mg
Iron1.0 mg
Potassium322 mg

Chef’s Secret

To reduce heat, remove the seeds and white pith (placenta) of chilies before using, as these contain most of the capsaicin.

Chilies Substitutes & Ratios

The best substitute for Chilies is Chili Powder, used at a 1:0.25 (fresh:powder) ratio. Good for adding heat, less fresh flavor and texture, use sparingly.

Substitutes for Chilies with ratios
Substitute Ratio Best for
Chili Powder Best 1:0.25 (fresh:powder) Good for adding heat, less fresh flavor and texture, use sparingly.
Bell Peppers 1:1 Provides similar texture and mild flavor, no heat. Good for bulk.
Paprika (smoked or sweet) 1:0.5 (fresh:paprika) Adds color and mild flavor (sweet/smoky), very little heat.
Hot Sauce To taste Instant heat and some flavor, changes liquid content of dish.

How to Choose & Store Chilies

  1. Look for firm, brightly colored chilies without blemishes.
  2. Store in the refrigerator crisper drawer.

What Pairs Well With Chilies?

  • Garlic
  • onion
  • cumin
  • lime
  • cilantro
  • tomatoes
  • corn
  • chocolate
  • meats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Chilies taste like?

Spicy, Pungent, Fruity, Smoky, Earthy (varies greatly by type) Pungent, Spicy, Fruity, Grassy, Smoky

What is a good substitute for Chilies?

The best substitute is Chili Powder (1:0.25 (fresh:powder)). Good for adding heat, less fresh flavor and texture, use sparingly.

How do you choose and store Chilies?

Look for firm, brightly colored chilies without blemishes. Store in the refrigerator crisper drawer.

Recipes Using Chilies

Kid Friendly Dietary Taste Mood Weeknight

4 Delicious French Fry Toppers

Elevate your simple french fries into gourmet masterpieces with these 4 incredible topping combinations! Inspired by Good Housekeeping, these recipes are quick, easy, and perfect for a fun weeknight meal or a satisfying game-day snack. Get ready to discover your new favorite fry topping!

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Diabetic Dietary Salads Salad Dressings

4 Salad Dressings

Transform your boring salads into flavour explosions with these 4 quick and easy Australian-inspired dressings! Perfect for diabetic-friendly diets, each recipe makes a single serving and takes only 2 minutes to prepare. Get ready to experience creamy, citrusy, Asian-inspired, and apple-mustard delights!

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Time To Make Equipment Grilling Occasion

A Smoked Beef Brisket With Rub And A Texas Bbq Sauce

Unleash the smoky, savory goodness of Texas BBQ with this mouthwatering smoked beef brisket recipe! Our flavorful rub, infused with oil-soluble spices and salt (essential for penetration!), creates a tender, juicy masterpiece. Slow-smoked to perfection over mesquite, pecan, or oak wood (mesquite delivers a bold flavor!), this recipe yields a generous amount of tangy Texas BBQ sauce – enough for leftovers and more! Enjoy the juicy brisket as is, or transform it into a slow-cooked shredded brisket masterpiece with onions and extra sauce. Prepare for pure BBQ bliss!

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5 Ingredients Or Less Time To Make Appetizers 3 Steps Or Less

Abby's Easy Chili Dip

This ridiculously easy chili cheese dip is ready in 5 minutes with only TWO ingredients! Perfect for game day, parties, or a quick weeknight snack. Serve with tortilla chips or eat it straight from the spoon – it's THAT good!

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Occasion Number Of Servings Beginner Cook Oaxacan

Agasajos Mexican Hot Chocolate

Warm up on a chilly night with this decadent Agasajos Mexican Hot Chocolate! Inspired by a cozy night in, this rich and spicy recipe is perfect for sharing with a loved one while watching a movie. Indulge in the intoxicating blend of chocolate, spices, and a hint of chili for an unforgettable hot chocolate experience. Perfect for snowy evenings or anytime you need a comforting treat.

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Spaghetti Italian Main Dish Time To Make

Aglio E Olio Spaghetti With Garlic And Olive Oil

Experience the magic of Italy with this unbelievably quick and easy Aglio e Olio Spaghetti recipe! This stunningly delicious pasta dish, adapted from Australia's Better Homes and Gardens, is a light yet satisfying supper perfect for a weeknight meal. The simple combination of garlic, olive oil, and spaghetti creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Serves 2 (easily doubled for 4).

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High Calcium Cuisine Occasion Honduran

Authentic Salvadorean Pupusas

Dive into the delicious world of Salvadorean cuisine with this authentic Pupusas recipe! While it requires some effort, the result is well worth it – perfectly crispy pupusas bursting with savory beans and melty cheese. This recipe is traditionally served with curtido (recipe #271297) and salsa roja (recipe #292499) for the ultimate flavor experience. Learn to make these handmade delicacies from scratch!

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Side Dishes Asian Summer Tomatoes

Avocado With Tofu

This vibrant and creamy Avocado & Tofu bowl is a crowd-pleaser! Inspired by a Japanese cooking show, this recipe has been a favorite at my church potlucks for years. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Get ready to experience a delightful fusion of textures and tastes!

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Indian Cuisine Kosher Vegetarian

Awesome Sambhar

Craving comforting, flavorful Indian food? This Awesome Sambhar recipe delivers a delicious lentil curry with irresistible spices and just the right touch of heat – perfect for a weeknight meal! Ready in under an hour, it's surprisingly simple to make and pairs beautifully with rice and a fresh salad. Get ready for a taste of authentic Indian comfort food!

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Weeknight Vegetarian Side Dishes Stove Top

Awesome Sweet And Sour Kraut

Craving a vibrant and tangy side dish or a unique twist on sauerkraut? This homemade Sweet and Sour Kraut recipe is bursting with flavor! Featuring sweet-tart apples like Gala or Braeburn, this recipe is incredibly versatile – enjoy it hot or cold, anytime, anywhere! Perfect as a complement to grilled meats, sausages, or simply as a delicious standalone side. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Cuisine Preparation Corn Main Dish

B B Q D Corn With Chilli Lime Butter

Elevate your BBQ game with this vibrant Chili Lime Butter Corn on the Cob recipe! Inspired by Margaret Johnson's recipe in our local state paper, this delicious side dish (or main course!) is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfectly charred corn is slathered with a zesty, creamy chili lime butter—a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for more. Serve as a main course for 4, or alongside grilled chops and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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Main Ingredient Shellfish Main Ingredient Seafood

B B Q Almond And Honey Crusted Prawns

Elevate your grilling game with these succulent BBQ Almond & Honey Crusted Prawns! This revamped recipe features a sweet and savory crust that's incredibly easy to make – simply combine all ingredients (using a hand mixer or food processor for extra ease!), marinate, and grill to perfection. The precise cook time depends on prawn size, but the result is always a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish, perfect for a summer barbecue or a special weeknight meal. Serve with lemon wedges and a fresh salad for a complete culinary experience.

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Beef 3 Steps Or Less Inexpensive Lunch

Bacon Chili Burrito Dogs

Unleash your inner chef with this explosive fusion of flavors! Bacon Chili Burrito Dogs deliver a mouthwatering explosion of savory bacon, spicy chili, and all the goodness of a classic hot dog, all wrapped up in a warm, flour tortilla. A quick and easy 5-minute meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or game day snack!

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Beans Tomatoes 4 Hours Or Less Main Dish

Bean And Sweet Potato Nachos

Elevate your nacho game with this vibrant vegetarian twist! Inspired by Linda McCartney's recipes, these nachos boast a flavorful tomato-bean sauce and perfectly spiced sweet potatoes. Customize them to your liking – skip the sweet potatoes for a quicker weeknight meal, or add a kick with our spicy avocado guacamole (recipe included!). This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a casual gathering or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

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Soups Stews Soups Stews Time To Make Course

Best Kept Secret Soup

This ridiculously easy chili corn soup recipe is about to become your new favorite! Simple ingredients combine for a surprisingly delicious and satisfying meal ready in under 40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Don't let the simplicity fool you – this soup is bursting with flavor!

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Oven 60 Minutes Or Less Taste Mood Inexpensive

Chili Cornbread Casserole

Transform leftover chili into a comforting and cheesy Chili Cornbread Casserole! This incredibly easy and budget-friendly recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Customize it with your favorite additions – shredded cheddar, creamy corn, diced onions, or fiery jalapeños – to create your ultimate flavor combination. Make it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining!

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Camping Kid Friendly Preparation Inexpensive

Hot Dog Tag Alongs

Say goodbye to condiment chaos! These Hot Dog Tag-Alongs are the perfect make-ahead meal for picnics, tailgates, or a quick and easy lunch. Packed with flavor and incredibly convenient, simply assemble the filling ahead of time and bake or grill when ready. Get ready for delicious, mess-free fun!

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4 Hours Or Less Occasion Time To Make Main Ingredient

Jamies Chilli Con Carne

This hearty and flavorful Jamie Oliver-inspired Chilli Con Carne is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. Packed with tender ground beef, vibrant spices, and sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference. Make it ahead for even deeper flavor – it tastes even better the next day! Serve over fluffy rice with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings!

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Related Spice, Vegetable Ingredients

Need a substitute for Chilies right now, or a recipe that uses it? Ask Sous, your AI sous-chef.