Sambal oelek is increasing in popularity among chefs and foodies, to the point where everyday recipes are now commonly calling for this spicy chili paste. But what do you do if your local grocer doesn’t carry it or if you simply don’t have the time …
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 …
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 …
With the popularity of spicy foods on the rise, chili paste has taken on more and more prominence in the kitchen. But unlike its hot sauce cousin, it’s not nearly as easy to pick up at your local grocer. So what are your options if your …
French cuisine and Espelette pepper (a.k.a.piment d’Espelette) go hand in hand. It’s the pepper of the Basque region and a staple for local spicy recipes due to its tasty sweet flavor and moderate heat. So it’s likely, if you’re exploring French cuisine, that you’ll stumble …
From homemade barbecue sauces and rubs to rustic stews and meals, smoky chipotle powder is a common theme in recipes. But it isn’t always a typical spice you’ll just have in your spice rack. So what should you do if your kitchen concoction calls for …
The aji amarillo chili is very popular in its native Peru, but finding it elsewhere can be a bit tricky. If your recipe calls for it, you’re likely looking for alternatives. So what’s a good aji amarillo substitute that you’re more likely to find in …
Because Thai peppers are a must for many traditional Asian recipes, they are readily available dried and jarred in many supermarkets. But what if they’re out? Or what if you want something fresh? Where can you turn? What other chilies work as a Thai chili pepper substitute, both …
Akin to Western barbecue sauce, hoisin sauce is a delicious sweet and spicy mix that’s a must for many authentic Asian meals. And it’s a terrific barbecue sauce alternative for grilled meats. Hoisin sauce is carried in most supermarkets with international food sections, but where can …
Pasilla peppers are one of the “Holy Trinity” of Mexican mole chilies, so—with the rise in popularity of authentic Mexican cuisine—the pasilla’s popularity is also rising around the world. But, depending on where you live, they can be tough to find. So what are your options if this …