The chili pepper is a spicy fruit of Mesoamerican origin, especially from tropical climates, used to flavor food. Its name comes from the language of the pre-Columbian inhabitants, known as "Haxi," from which the popular name "ají" originates as a corruption of that name.
Today there are more than 250 varieties of chili peppers in the world, among which the hot chili pepper and the sweet chili pepper stand out, which will be the protagonists of our article today.
Chili pepper
Its scientific name is Capsicum annuum, commonly known as chili pepper, bell pepper, habanero pepper, naga jolokia, piri piri, tabasco, or brown pepper. Its shapes, colors, and sizes vary among the more than 40 domesticated species suitable for human consumption. This type of chili pepper contains a chemical substance called capsaicin, a product of the fruit's transformation during development, which is responsible for the burning sensation in the mouth. Furthermore, this substance has been recognized as having a powerful antioxidant effect that helps combat cancer cells.
What is chili pepper used for?
Hot peppers are frequently used in Mexican cuisine to season sauces, stews, casseroles, desserts, ice cream, and even children's candies. In some Asian countries, they are also used in the preparation of soups, fish, and seafood.
Sweet chili pepper
A sweet pepper is a fruit that retains its chemical properties during development. It lacks capsaicin, so it doesn't produce a burning sensation in the mouth. It is small and round, and its color depends on its ripeness, ranging from green and yellow to orange and red. Its appearance is identical to that of a hot pepper, making identification difficult. Sweet peppers are identified by the origin of their seeds when planted. Selecting them is a great mystery; farmers can identify them without tasting them, which can be very challenging for the end consumer. Recognized varieties of this type of pepper include the bell pepper and the Bell pepper.
What is sweet pepper used for?
Sweet peppers are indispensable when making soups, stews, and sauces. They add an unparalleled flavor to stews and are a key ingredient for seasoning both red and white meats. This ingredient is also used to flavor dishes containing fish and seafood. In Latin America, specifically in Venezuela, it is used in the Andean region as a particular ingredient in the preparation of shredded beef, cornmeal dumplings with sweet pepper sauce, and the Mojito Trujillano, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, as announced by Irina Bokova. Sweet peppers are an iconic ingredient in Latin American cuisine, so when you want to prepare a Latin American dish, you shouldn't be without them.
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