If you're a fan of spicy food, then you must try red hot chili peppers. One pound of these fiery delights (excluding seeds, solids, and liquids, canned) contains only 95 calories, making them a great addition to your meals.

Not only are they low in calories, but they also have a wealth of nutritional benefits. Red hot chili peppers are loaded with vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as potassium and iron. They even have a compound called capsaicin, which is responsible for their heat and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

In this article, we'll delve into the health benefits of red hot chili peppers, how to cook with them, and even some fun facts about these spicy fruits.

What are Red Hot Chili Peppers?

Red hot chili peppers are a type of fruit known for their spicy flavor. They come in a range of colors, from green and yellow to orange and red, and are used in a variety of cuisines around the world. These peppers contain capsaicin, a compound that causes the sensation of heat in the body. This is why they are often associated with sweating, runny noses, and fiery tongues. In addition to their spicy flavor, red hot chili peppers are also rich in vitamins and minerals. They're a great source of vitamin A, which is important for eye health, and vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system.

Calories in Red Hot Chili Peppers

As mentioned earlier, one pound of red hot chili peppers (excluding seeds, solids, and liquids, canned) contains just 95 calories. That's because they are mostly made up of water and fiber, both of which are filling but low in calories. This makes them a great addition to your meals if you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. They add flavor and texture to your dishes without adding a lot of extra calories.

Health Benefits of Red Hot Chili Peppers

In addition to being low in calories, red hot chili peppers are also packed with health benefits. As mentioned earlier, they are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like potassium and iron. The capsaicin in red hot chili peppers has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate pain in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It may also help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

How to Cook with Red Hot Chili Peppers

Red hot chili peppers can add a kick of flavor to any dish. Here are some tips on how to cook with them: - If you want to dial down the heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers before using them. - Use gloves when handling spicy peppers to prevent getting the oils on your skin, which can cause a burning sensation.

Red Hot Chili Peppers vs. Other Peppers

Not all peppers are created equal when it comes to heat. Here's how red hot chili peppers compare to some other commonly used peppers: - Jalapeno peppers are a milder option, with a rating of 2,500 to 8,000 on the Scoville scale. - Habanero peppers are much hotter, with a rating of 100,000 to 350,000 on the Scoville scale.

Are Red Hot Chili Peppers Spicy?

Yes, red hot chili peppers are spicy. They contain the compound capsaicin, which causes the sensation of heat in the body. However, the level of spiciness can vary depending on the type of pepper and whether or not the seeds and membranes are removed. If you're sensitive to spicy food, you may want to start with a milder pepper like a jalapeno and work your way up to red hot chili peppers.

Red Hot Chili Peppers and Weight Loss

Red hot chili peppers may actually help with weight loss. Because they are low in calories but high in fiber, they can help you feel fuller for longer and reduce overall calorie intake. Additionally, capsaicin has been shown to boost metabolism and increase fat burning. So, if you're looking to shed a few pounds, adding some red hot chili peppers to your diet may be a good idea.

Red Hot Chili Peppers and Digestive Health

Red hot chili peppers may also have benefits for digestive health. They can help stimulate the production of digestive juices and enzymes, which can improve digestion and prevent constipation. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to be cautious with how much spice you add to your diet. Too much heat can irritate the stomach lining and cause gastrointestinal distress.

Best Ways to Store Red Hot Chili Peppers

To keep your red hot chili peppers fresh, store them in the refrigerator in a plastic bag. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you have leftover peppers that you don't think you'll be able to use before they spoil, you can freeze them for later use. Just wash and dry the peppers, then cut them into pieces or leave them whole and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will last for up to six months in the freezer.

Fun Facts About Red Hot Chili Peppers

- The Scoville scale was created by American pharmacist Wilbur Scoville to measure the heat of chili peppers. Red hot chili peppers can range from 30,000 to 350,000 on the scale. - In some cultures, red hot chili peppers are believed to have aphrodisiac qualities. - Red hot chili peppers are not technically a vegetable, but rather a fruit, as they contain seeds.