Cayenne Pepper vs Chili Powder
In countries and cultures with traditionally hot and spicy foods, chilies, chili powder, and various types of fruits from the capsicum family are commonly used in recipes and as seasoning or garnish for dishes. Many people are confused about the differences between cayenne pepper and chili powder, as both are known for their heat and spiciness. This article will explore the differences between these two ingredients based on their composition and level of heat.
It may be surprising, but substituting chili powder for cayenne pepper in a dish can often result in a blander taste, as cayenne pepper is much hotter in comparison to chili powder. Additionally, using one in place of the other can result in changes in aroma and flavor.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is a pure spice known by various names in different cultures, including Guinea spice, aleva, cow horn pepper, and bird pepper. It is often called red pepper because it is made from dried and ground chili peppers that are red and hot. Cayenne is a plant in the capsicum family and is named after its origin in the French Guinea city of Cayenne. Cayenne pepper has a Scoville rating of 30,000-50,000, making it one of the hottest food items available. Cayenne powder is used to make dishes strong and hot during cooking, and it is also added as seasoning in some Korean and Chinese dishes.
Cayenne pepper is known for its health benefits, as it is rich in vitamins and minerals. However, due to its extreme heat, it cannot be consumed in large quantities, limiting the amount of vitamins and minerals one can obtain from it. Nonetheless, it remains popular in some cultures due to the presence of capsaicin, one of its ingredients known to be an aphrodisiac.
Chili Powder
Chili powder is made from dried and ground chilies, a fruit belonging to plants in the capsicum family. For thousands of years, people have used chili powder to add heat and spice to their food. Chili powder also adds flavor and aroma to dishes, making it a staple spice in kitchens around the world. Chili powder is actually a blend of several ingredients, including cumin and garlic powder, giving it a unique and aromatic flavor.
Key Takeaways
- Cayenne pepper is a specific type of pepper known for its intense heat, while chili powder is a mixture of various ingredients that may include cayenne peppers.
- Cayenne pepper gets its name from the French Guinea city of Cayenne and belongs to the capsicum family of plants.
- Cayenne peppers are significantly hotter than chili powder.
