Also Called: Crushed red pepper
Chili flakes are a versatile and popular seasoning made from dried and crushed red chili peppers. These flakes are commonly used to add heat and flavor to a wide range of dishes across global cuisines, from Italian pastas and pizzas to Asian stir-fries and Mexican salsas. Chili flakes are typically made from a variety of red chiles, such as cayenne, but can also be a blend of different peppers, including jalapeño, serrano, or ancho, giving them a wide range of heat levels and flavor profiles.
On the Scoville scale, chili flakes generally range between 15,000 to 45,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), depending on the types of peppers used in the blend. This moderate to high heat level makes them a great all-purpose spice, offering a punch of spiciness without overwhelming the dish. One of the key characteristics of chili flakes is their ability to deliver a quick burst of heat, followed by a lingering warmth, making them ideal for enhancing the flavor of foods without overpowering other ingredients.
In the kitchen, chili flakes are incredibly versatile. They are often used as a condiment to sprinkle over pizza, pasta, and salads, adding heat and texture. In cooking, they are incorporated into sauces, marinades, soups, and stews to impart a spicy kick. Chili flakes are also a popular ingredient in spice rubs for grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables, and they can be infused into oils for drizzling over dishes like stir-fries and roasted vegetables.
Chili flakes are a staple in many cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and Indian, where they are used to elevate both traditional and modern recipes. In addition to their heat, chili flakes can add a slight smoky, earthy, or fruity undertone, depending on the variety of peppers used.