Green chile is a low-calorie food choice that packs a healthy punch. Two tablespoons (31 g) of green chile contain only 20 calories, making it a great option for maintaining a healthy diet.
In addition to being a low-calorie food, green chile is packed with nutrients such as Vitamin C, which can play an essential role in keeping your immune system healthy. Green chiles also contain capsaicin, a compound that provides many health benefits, including pain relief and boosting metabolism.
Green chile is a versatile ingredient that is enjoyed in many cuisines, including Tex-Mex Cuisine. Adding green chile to your dishes is an easy way to add flavor and heat to your meals. In this article, we will dive deeper into the many health benefits of green chile and why it should be a part of your diet.
Low-Calorie Food
Green chile is a great low-calorie food option, packing a ton of flavor and nutrients without all the calories. 2 tbsp (31 g) of green chile contain only 20 calories. This is great news for those looking to stay within their daily calorie limit while still satisfying their taste buds.
High in Vitamin C
Green chile is a great source of Vitamin C, which plays an essential role in boosting the immune system. Just 2 tbsp (31 g) of green chile contain around 40% of the daily recommended value of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is also important for helping the body to absorb other nutrients.
Source of Capsaicin
Green chiles contain capsaicin, a compound that provides many health benefits. Capsaicin has been shown to help with pain relief, boost metabolism, and even potentially help with weight loss. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory and can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Versatile Ingredient
Green chile is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. It is commonly used in Tex-Mex cuisine and is a staple in many traditional dishes such as enchiladas, tacos, and burritos. It is also a great addition to soups, stews, and sauces for an added kick of flavor and heat.
Popular in Tex-Mex Cuisine
Green chile is a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine and is used in many traditional dishes. It is a key ingredient in many Tex-Mex classics such as chili con carne, enchiladas, and tamales. Its unique flavor and heat profile make it a favorite among many foodies and chefs alike.
Adds Flavor and Heat to Dishes
Green chile is an excellent addition to any dish that needs a little bit of extra flavor and heat. Its distinct flavor profile can add depth to soups, stews, and sauces, while its heat can add a little kick to any meal. Green chile is also great on its own as a topping for pizzas or added to sandwiches.
Green chile contains capsaicin, a compound that may help to boost metabolism. Studies have shown that consuming capsaicin may help to increase the body's metabolic rate, leading to more calories burned throughout the day.
May Improve Digestive Health
Green chile is an excellent source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps to keep food moving through the gut, reducing the risk of constipation and other digestive issues. Additionally, capsaicin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the gut.
May Provide Pain Relief
Capsaicin, the compound found in green chile, has been shown to have pain-relieving properties. It works by activating pain receptors in the body, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Capsaicin is commonly used in topical creams and lotions to help relieve pain caused by arthritis, joint pain, and many other ailments.
May Enhance Brain Function
Green chile contains Vitamin B6, which plays an essential role in brain function. B6 is essential for the production of neurotransmitters, which are necessary for the relay of messages between brain cells. Additionally, capsaicin has been shown to have cognitive-boosting properties and may help to improve memory and learning abilities.
Green chile is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. Its unique flavor profile and heat make it a favorite among many foodies and chefs alike.
5 FAQ about Green Chile
1. What are green chiles?
Green chiles are peppers that are harvested before they fully ripen and turn red. They are commonly used in southwestern cuisine and can be mild or hot in flavor.
2. What are the health benefits of green chiles?
Green chiles are low in calories and high in vitamins and antioxidants. They can also help boost metabolism and aid in digestion.
3. How do you prepare green chiles?
Green chiles can be roasted, grilled, or sautéed and are often used in dishes such as enchiladas, tacos, and chili. They can also be diced and added to salsas and dips.
4. Are green chiles spicy?
Green chiles can range in spiciness from mild to hot depending on the variety. Some common mild varieties include Anaheim and poblano, while hotter varieties include serrano and jalapeño.
5. Where can I buy green chiles?
Green chiles can usually be found at grocery stores in the produce section, either fresh or canned. They are also available online from various retailers.