Kashmiri chilli powder, 150gms

Kashmiri chili powder is a type of red chili powder that comes from the dried chilies grown in the Kashmir region of India. It is known for its mild heat and vibrant red color, making it a popular choice in Indian cooking. The chili powder is made by grinding the dried, de-seeded chilies, which are typically mild but have a slightly sweet, earthy flavor. While it doesn’t pack the intense heat of other chili powders, it adds depth and a distinct color to dishes.

Key Characteristics of Kashmiri Chili Powder:

1. Color: The most notable feature of Kashmiri chili powder is its brilliant, bright red color, which is often used to enhance the visual appeal of a dish.
2. Mild Heat: Unlike other chili powders, Kashmiri chili powder has a mild to moderate heat level. It doesn't overpower a dish with spice but still adds a subtle warmth.
3. Flavor: The flavor is slightly smoky, sweet, and earthy, making it suitable for both spicy and non-spicy dishes.
4. Texture: The powder is finely ground, which gives it a smooth texture, ideal for blending into sauces, curries, and marinades.

Culinary Uses of Kashmiri Chili Powder:

1. Curries and Gravies: Kashmiri chili powder is commonly used in Indian curry dishes, such as butter chicken, Rogan Josh, and other meat or vegetable curries. It gives a rich color and mild heat to the gravy or sauce.
2. Tandoori Dishes: It's a key ingredient in tandoori marinades for meats and vegetables, where it contributes to both the color and the flavor.
3. Rice Dishes: It is often added to rice dishes like biryani and pulao for color and flavor without adding excessive heat.
4. Chutneys and Pickles: Kashmiri chili powder is used in the preparation of chutneys and pickles, adding depth and color without making the food too spicy.
5. Indian Snacks: It is used in a variety of Indian street foods and snacks, including chat masala, pakoras, and samosas, for its mild heat and vibrant color.

Health Benefits of Kashmiri Chili Powder:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Kashmiri chili powder contains capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their heat, as well as other antioxidants that can help protect the body from oxidative stress.
2. Improves Digestion: Like many other chili powders, Kashmiri chili can aid in digestion by stimulating the production of stomach acids and promoting better absorption of nutrients.
3. Boosts Metabolism: Capsaicin in Kashmiri chili powder can help boost metabolism, which may support weight management efforts.
4. Anti-inflammatory: The antioxidants and capsaicin in Kashmiri chili powder have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain in the body.
5. Improves Circulation: Consuming chili powder may help improve blood circulation, providing a warming effect to the body.

Differences Between Kashmiri Chili Powder and Regular Chili Powder:

• Heat Level: Kashmiri chili powder is much milder than regular chili powder or cayenne pepper, making it more suitable for dishes where a strong chili flavor is desired without overwhelming spice.
• Color: Kashmiri chili powder is bright red, while regular chili powder can range in color from deep red to brown depending on the variety of chili used.
• Flavor: Kashmiri chili powder has a distinct sweet and smoky flavor, while other chili powders may have more intense heat and less of a sweet flavor.