A 50 gram sealed pack of dried ground Thai Birds Eye Chillies
Birds eye chili powder, also known as Thai chili powder or Thai pepper powder, is made from grinding dried birds eye chilies. These chilies are small, thin, and highly spicy. Birds eye chili powder is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian dishes. Here are some uses for birds eye chili powder:
Spice Blends: Birds eye chili powder can be incorporated into spice blends and rubs to add heat and flavor to various dishes. It can be combined with other spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garlic powder to create a versatile seasoning mix for meats, vegetables, and soups.
Curries and Stir-Fries: Birds eye chili powder is a key ingredient in many curries and stir-fries, providing the dishes with a spicy kick. It can be added during the cooking process to infuse the flavors throughout the dish. Be cautious with the amount used, as birds eye chili powder can be quite potent.
Sauces and Dips: Birds eye chili powder can be used to make spicy sauces and dips. It can be added to tomato-based sauces, sambal, hot dipping sauces, or even homemade hot sauces for an intense heat. Adjust the amount based on your desired spice level.
Marinades and Dressings: Birds eye chili powder can be incorporated into marinades for meats and dressings for salads. It adds a fiery element to the marinade, enhancing the flavor of the dish. When using it in dressings, mix it with other ingredients like lime juice, garlic, and fish sauce for a Southeast Asian-inspired dressing.
Pickling: Birds eye chili powder can be used in pickling brines to create spicy pickled vegetables. The powder can be added to the brine mixture along with other spices and vinegar, infusing the vegetables with heat and tang.
Seasoning Snacks: Sprinkle a small amount of birds eye chili powder onto snacks like popcorn, roasted nuts, or potato chips to give them a spicy twist. It adds an extra layer of heat and flavor to your favorite snacks.
Thai Dishes: Birds eye chili powder is commonly used in Thai cuisine. It is an essential ingredient in dishes like Tom Yum soup, Pad Thai, green curry, and many other Thai recipes. It contributes to the authentic flavor profile of these dishes.
Remember that birds eye chili powder is very hot, so use it sparingly and adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance. Its always a good idea to start with a small amount and gradually add more if needed.