Nam prik pao is sometimes called Thai chili jam and is a spicy, savory condiment traditionally served with fresh vegetables. You will need it to get that authentic taste in many Thai-style recipes for soups and stir-fried dishes, but it is not yet a common …
Chaat masala (or chat masala) is one unique seasoning. A staple of Indian cuisine, it delivers a complex mix of tart, salty, and spicy all rolled into one. So how do you make do if you have none in your cupboard and a recipe calling …
Aji panca is a favorite for Peruvian cuisine, and with its berry-like smoky flavor its easy to see why. Aji panca is typically found in paste or powder form; in both forms, they are simple to purchase online. But what if you need a substitute …
You may have come across “chili sauce” as an ingredient for your next great recipe find. But this term is just about as generic as can be in the world of spicy food. What is chili sauce, exactly? And what would be a good chili …
Japanese cuisine and spicy aren’t often a pairing that goes together, but there are some exceptions. One is shichimi togarashi seasoning. The popular Japanese spice mix, also known as Japanese seven-spice seasoning, is popular for everything from Asian soups and tempura to noodles and grilled …
The famous Jamaican jerk seasoning can turn many a cut of meat and Caribbean meal into something exotic, flavorful, and no doubt spicy. Though, while it’s easy to find at most grocery stores, it’s not for most people a seasoning that’s a no-brainer for the …
Bell peppers are everywhere, of course, but that doesn’t mean that trying an alternative from time to time isn’t worth the culinary adventure! Whether you’re looking for an alternative to the grassy bright flavor of the bell or you’re simply ready to explore peppers with …
Hot paprika can be either hot Hungarian paprika or hot smoked paprika from Spain. The Spanish and Hungarian versions are interchangeable, but you may not have an easy time finding either in the average American grocery store. If you are trying to replace either type …
Taco seasoning is one of the more useful seasoning mixes for the spicy food fan. From taco nights to game day dips, its addition adds a mild simmer and earthiness to any dish it touches. But what if you’re out? Or what if you want to change …
From sweetening fiery Asian cuisine to firing up delicious desserts, sweet chili sauce has found growing use in the kithen. It’s typically easy to find at your local grocer (look in the international section), but if you need a quick substitute, you do have some …