1. Description of chilli
Chilli is a fruit of the trees of the genus Capsicum of the Solanaceae family. Chili is considered as a spice or a vegetable which is popular in the world. Chili originated from the America. Today it is grown all over the world and is used as a spice, vegetable, and medicine.
2. Nutrients in chilli
5 g of chilli contain 4 mg of vitamin C, 1.6 mg of vitamin E, 0.5 mg of niacin, 0.1 mg of vitamin B6, 7.8 mg of calcium, 8 mg of magnesium, 106 mg of potassium, 0, 1 mg of zinc, 0.1 mg of manganese, 0.4 mg of iron, 1.6 mg of sodium.
3. Medicinal properties of chilli
The benefit of spicy food is to help improve function of the heart. The spicy taste due to capsaicin can lower bad cholesterol levels. In a study published by the American Chemical Society, scientists have found that capsaicin reduces LDL by increasing the flow of blood, blocking a gene that narrows blood vessel walls. Research by scientists shows that capsaicin can slow the growth of prostatic and pancreatic cancer cells. Capsaicin can also relieve pain. In addition, it helps increase the amount of nitric oxide in the blood, fight inflammation and lower blood pressure.
Chilli
4. Preservation
There are four unique ways to preserve chillies so that they can retain their flavour and heat.
4.1. Drying chilli
The most popular method of preserving chillies is to dry them. The easiest way to dry chillies is by using a dehydrator. If you don’t have a dehydrator, another option when drying chillies is to lay them out in the sun, giving the peppers enough ventilation and warmth to achieve the proper consistency.
The best way to prepare your chilli peppers is to rinse them in salt water to prevent mould from forming and then use a drying method of your choice. Once the chillies are dried, the best storage method is in an airtight container either whole.
4.2. Freezing chilli
Freezing chilli peppers is another way to preserve the freshness and flavour of chillies. The simplest method is to clean your peppers in cool water, gently dry them with a cloth, and then store them in a Ziploc bag or container and put them in the freezer. A quick tip to remember is to freeze them before they get ripe.
4.3. Pickling chilli
Pickling is another method used to preserve your chilli peppers. You can create different tastes just by adding a touch of spice or different types of vinegar.
The most basic way to pickle a pepper is to start by washing them in salty water. Once that is done, you’ll set aside your peppers while you boil up some white wine mixed with cider vinegar and sugar. You can vary your pickling juice by adding different ingredients that fit with your taste buds. While your “juice” is boiling, you will want to poke holes in the top of the chillies so the taste will be even bolder within your pepper. Once cooled, store the sealed jars in your refrigerator for at least two weeks before digging in and enjoying them.
4.3 Short-term preservation
While the methods mentioned are excellent ways to preserve your chilli peppers for the long haul, a few methods will help keep your peppers from spoiling for a week or two weeks.
You can preserve your chilli peppers in olive oil, which will last for a week or two. With this method, you will want to clean and dry your peppers and then roast them in your broiler or on the grill until the skins are blackened. Make sure not to overcook them. At that point, you will skin them and cut them into strips. You will then put them in a clean, airtight jar. Cover your peppers in olive oil and tightly close the lid. You will then refrigerate them and have delicious chilli peppers for the next few weeks.
