What is red chilli paste, lal mirch ki paste?

Red chilli paste is a good alternative to keep as they are not available all year round. This paste is spicy, hot and very appealing. The red chillies are washed, cleaned, chopped into fine pieces and grounded in a blender with lemon juice, salt, little sugar and cumin seeds till smooth. One can even grind it coarsely if a recipe call for the same.

How to select red chilli paste, lal mirch ki paste

Pick deep bright red coloured chillies which should be shiny, crisp and unwrinkled ones. Make sure they are bright and unbroken.

Culinary Uses of red chilli paste, lal mirch ki paste in Indian Cooking

· Red chilli paste is often used as a dip, spread, and topping or can be used as a base for pizza and sandwiches.

· It is a wonderful accompaniment to Parathas, chapattis, Vadas, samosas or Pattice. Usually all Indian meals are accompanied by either pickles or chutneys. They can be used with breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks.

· Easy to make and add flavor in your cooking

· Add the paste into cream cheese for a sandwich spread. Thin with sour cream or yogurt to make a dip.

How to store red chilli paste, lal mirch ki paste

It is best to freeze it in a dry container and remove 10 minutes prior to use in any recipe. Dont forget to keep it back in freezer, as it might turn dark and loose its freshness. It can stay good for a month and half.

Health benefits of red chilli paste, lal mirch ki paste

The substance capsaicin which the red chillies their characteristic spiciness may help reduce inflammation in the body. The cayenne in red chillies has shown to have heart protecting benefits in a few studies. On the other hand, the vitamin C in it, can also boost immunity to some extent. They also contain some amounts of beta carotene, very few carbs and a small amount of protein and fibre.