Hot peppers, or chilies, are a fiery addition to any garden, especially in the fall when they’re harvested in abundance. While drying peppers is a popular choice for preserving them, there are many other creative ways to use hot peppers that can bring zest to your meals, soothe a sore throat, and even provide relief for aching muscles. Here are four innovative uses for hot peppers:
Handling Hot Peppers Safely
Before diving into these fiery projects, it’s important to take safety precautions. Hot peppers contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat, which can cause skin irritation. The heat level of peppers is measured in Scoville Units, ranging from the mild jalapeños (2,000 units) to the blistering heat of habaneros (up to 350,000 units). Always wear gloves when handling hot peppers and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid irritation. If capsaicin residue gets on your hands, rub them with cooking oil, wash with dish soap and hot water, and finish with rubbing alcohol to remove it.
1. Hot Honey
Hot honey is a delicious and versatile condiment that pairs beautifully with dishes like roasted winter squash or adds an exciting twist to salad dressings. It’s also great for soothing a sore throat. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 16 oz (464 g) honey
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- Several hot peppers (snip some into pieces, and leave a few whole)
Instructions:
- Place honey and vinegar in a saucepan, add the peppers (pierce the whole ones to release air), and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
- Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and strain into heatproof jars, placing one whole pepper in each jar for decoration.
2. Hot Pepper Vinegar
A staple in Southern kitchens, hot pepper vinegar is perfect for drizzling over beans, collard greens, or other cooked dishes. It’s incredibly easy to make and adds a spicy kick to any meal.
Ingredients:
- Hot peppers, trimmed or split
- Simmering-hot vinegar (preferably white vinegar)
Instructions:
- Place the peppers in a heatproof container and cover them with hot vinegar.
- Let the vinegar cool before transferring it to bottles.
- Add garlic or herbs for extra flavor if desired.
3. Fermented Hot Sauce
Fermented hot sauce is a simple project that yields a tangy, flavorful condiment. It’s great for beginners in fermentation, as the process is straightforward and always results in a delicious sauce.
Ingredients:
- Chili peppers (cut into rings)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tbsp salt to 2 cups water (for brine)
- Vinegar (for later)
Instructions:
- Pack the chopped peppers and garlic into a clean jar and cover with a salty brine.
- Seal the jar with a vapor lock or a cloth held in place by a rubber band.
- Stir the mixture every couple of days. After 1-2 weeks, the peppers will soften, and the liquid will become cloudy.
- Drain half of the brine and replace it with vinegar. Store the mixture in the fridge.
- Puree the fermented peppers to create a flavorful hot sauce.
4. Hot Pepper Lotion
Capsaicin in hot peppers is known for its pain-relieving properties. You can use this natural compound to make a homemade lotion that provides relief from sore muscles and joint pain.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond oil
- Several chopped cayenne or other hot peppers
- Your favorite skin lotion
Instructions:
- Place chopped peppers in almond oil and heat in a covered baking dish at 250°F (120°C) for two hours.
- Let the oil cool overnight, then crush the peppers with a spoon and reheat for another two hours.
- Strain the oil through a coffee filter to remove pepper pieces.
- Mix a small amount of capsaicin oil with your favorite lotion. If the oil and lotion don’t blend well, microwave the mixture for 10 seconds and stir until smooth.
These methods make the most of your hot pepper harvest and provide you with unique, flavorful, and soothing products. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dishes, create a homemade remedy, or make a thoughtful gift, hot peppers offer endless possibilities!