Matt Bray 
If you’re around chili peppers (or any vegetable long enough) – whether you’re a gardener or not – you’re bound to hear references to hybrid plants. But what is a hybrid plant? Is it something cultivated? Can it happen on its own? Are there benefits …
Jerk seasoning refers to a blend of herbs and spices used in jerk cooking. Jerk seasoning can be a wet paste consisting of fresh ingredients and dry spices, or it might be the dry spices alone. Jerk seasoning is traditionally used on pork and chicken. …
If you’re a fan of spicy heat on (or in) nearly anything, you won’t have any trouble coming up with ways to use up hot sauce; however, you may need some ideas if you are stuck with a hot sauce that is too spicy. Using …
What are Black Pearl peppers? When you hear Black Pearl, it’s easy for your imagination to run wild: from the infamous treasure-seeking ship in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies to rare jewels that widen the eyes of all that see them. And so it goes …
Indian spices are always aromatic and savory, and we love them so – especially when they have a healthy dose of dried red chilies in the mix. This homemade chaat masala recipe delivers there, plus you can optionally add paprika for a little more warmth …
Wrangle up your family and friends and enjoy some fiery grub. This spicy cowboy bean recipe – featuring a lot of pork – is chock full of flavor. And the heat? There are multiple sources here: fresh jalapeño pepper, cayenne pepper powder, and chili powder …
Horseradish and chili peppers stimulate the same set of sensory receptors (called polymodal nociceptors) in the mouth and nose, which is why we register both of them as hot with both spices, the ability to cause burning is likely the plant’s self-protection mechanism to avoid …
Old Bay seasoning and Cajun seasoning are two regionally iconic American spice blends. Old Bay comes from Maryland; Cajun seasoning is associated with parts of Louisiana. The two differ strongly in their intended effects on food, although both are flavorful and have several ingredients in …
Want to heighten the flavor of your Japanese fare? Try your hand at making this shichimi togarashi recipe the next time you’re up for an exotic twist. This delicious Japanese spice mixture is also known as seven-spice seasoning, as it near always contains seven ingredients. There’s …
Sambal oelek is not quite as popular in the West as sriracha, but in recent years it has begun to emerge from the shadow of the rooster sauce. These days, sambal oelek has a strong following among people who want a purer hot pepper experience. …