A hot pepper variety from the capsicum annuum family, the cayenne pepper is known for its bright red colour. Used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits, the colour and fierceness of this exotic pepper variety comes from a compound called capsaicin. It is often used to add a kick to dishes and of course, the little veggie has several health benefits too. In cooking, it is commonly found in sauces, soups, stews, and spice blends.

 Also Read: Cherry Pepper/Pimento Pepper: Uses, Health Benefits And Try This Simple Recipe

Why Is Cayenne Pepper Popular?

Cayenne pepper is valued for both its culinary versatility and its potential health benefits. Here are some ways it can be used:

Flavour Enhancement: Commonly used in cuisines from various cultures to provide heat to the food, the pepper adds spice to dishes thus enhancing their flavour profile.

Preservation: Historically, cayenne pepper has been used to preserve food. Its antimicrobial properties help inhibit the growth of bacteria and spoilage.

Medicinal Uses: In traditional medicine, cayenne pepper has been used to treat a range of issues, from digestive problems to arthritis pain, and for treatments of muscle and joint pain.

Deterrent: In some contexts, cayenne pepper is used as a deterrent, such as in pepper spray for self-defense or in gardening to keep pests away.

How Is Cayenne Pepper And Paprika Pepper Different?

Both used in powder form, the peppers differ significantly in the following ways:

  • Generally, very hot, cayenne pepper with a Scoville heat unit ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 which is many times than paprika. Paprika is mild to moderately spicy, with a SHU rating depending on the type
  • Cayenne has a sharp, pungent heat that can be quite intense. It does not contribute much in terms of flavour beyond the heat. Paprika has a range of flavours from sweet and smoky to hot and earthy.
  • Cayenne pepper is made from dried and ground cayenne chili peppers, which are usually red and very hot while paprika is made from dried and ground sweet or mild chili peppers
  • Cayenne pepper adds heat to dishes, such as in spicy sauces, marinades, and soups. Paprika enhances colour and adds a mild flavour to dishes and is popular in dishes like goulash and stews.

 Also Read: Cherry Pepper/Pimento Pepper: Uses, Health Benefits And Try This Simple Recipe

Health Benefits Of Cayenne Pepper

Like all pepper varieties, here are some of the potential benefits of the cayenne pepper.

Boosts Metabolism: Capsaicin in the pepper can increase metabolism, potentially helping with weight management by enhancing calorie burning.

Pain Relief: Capsaicin is used to relieve pain from conditions like arthritis and neuropathy by reducing substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in pain signaling.

Improves Digestion: Cayenne pepper may stimulate digestive enzymes and increase stomach acid production, which can aid smooth digestion.

Supports Cardiovascular Health: Capsaicin may help improve blood circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol levels, contributing to overall heart health.

Fights Inflammation: The compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and potentially alleviate conditions like arthritis.

Boosts Immune System: Cayenne pepper is high in vitamins A and C, both of which are important for maintaining a healthy immune system.

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To add this nutrient-dense pepper to your meal, try this recipe from cayenne pepper:

Cayenne Pepper Rice In Lentils

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • ¼ cup chana dal
  • ¼ cup toor dal
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1 medium tomato
  • 2 green chilies
  • 1 tsp ginger garlic paste
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper powder or 2 small ground cayenne pepper
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • Salt, as needed
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2 dried red chilies
  • A pinch of asafoetida
  • Few curry leaves
  • Fresh coriander leaves

Method

  • Soak the chana dal and toor dal for about one hour
  • Cook the soaked dals in a pressure cooker and keep them aside
  • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat
  • Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and asafoetida
  • Once the seeds crackle, add curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds
  • Add the chopped onions green chilies and ginger garlic paste until the raw smell disappears
  • Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, cayenne pepper powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt
  • Cook well
  • Add the cooked dal to the pan, mix well with the spice mixture
  • Add the basmati rice and add water
  • Cover and cook on low heat until the rice is fully cooked and absorbs the flavours
  • Once the rice is done, add lemon juice
  • Garnish with chopped coriander leaves
  • Serve hot with raita or pickle of your choice

Nutrition:

Cayenne pepper is rich in vitamin A which is crucial for vision and skin health. Vitamin C in the veggie supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant. Potassium helps to maintain proper fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals while helping oxygen transport in the blood and energy production.

Author Profile 

Preeti Sharma

Preeti Sharma has a master’s in electronic media and mass communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.

References:

Capsaicin may have important potential for promoting vascular and metabolic health

Mark F McCarty, James J DiNicolantonio, and James H O'Keefe

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4477151/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267248