Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a hot spice obtained by grinding dried chilli peppers of the species Capsicum annuum or Capsicum frutescens. It has a distinctly fiery flavour driven by capsaicin, registering approximately 30,000 to 50,000 SHU on the Scoville scale. In the kitchen it is used to season meats, soups, sauces, marinades, and spicy dishes around the world. It is especially popular in Mexican, Indian, Caribbean, and South American cuisines. Only a small amount is needed to add significant heat, so it should be used sparingly. Beyond its culinary uses, it is also associated with a range of potential health benefits.