Dried Chile Pepper

Dried chile peppers are the dehydrated fruits of various plants in the Capsicum genus. They are typically sun-dried or mechanically dried after harvesting. Drying concentrates their flavor and heat, and makes them shelf-stable.

Dried chile peppers are used to add heat, flavor, and color to a wide variety of foods. They are a key ingredient in many spice blends, sauces, marinades, and prepared meals. Their intense flavor makes them a popular choice for adding a savory, spicy profile.

Dried chile peppers are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. They are a source of capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat, which may have some antioxidant properties. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated capsaicinoids, but no specific ADI was set. Some studies suggest capsaicin may affect metabolism, but evidence is mixed and more research is needed.