Crushed red pepper or red pepper flakes is a condiment or spice consisting of dried and crushed (as opposed to ground) red chili peppers. The most popular use for this spice is as a pizza or pasta topping as well as in tomato sauce. It is also used in pickling, chowders, gumbos, sausage. They are also great in cream and cheese sauces, omelets, and marinades.
Red chili flakes perfect for dashing over pizza or any other food for a bit of zing and flavor. You can sprinkle them over anything it will give you a nice pop of heat and flavor. And, the great thing about making them at home is super easy.
How to make homemade red chili flakes? Two Methods – Pan and Microwave
To start with, clean dry red chilies and remove the stalk.
Dry Roast – Pan Method : Heat the pan nicely and add dry red chilies, no need to roast for a long time. Dry roast red chillies till it turns slightly browned.
Put roasted chillies into a dry hand mixer jar.
Pulse it 3-4 times, don’t over do. Spread it on a plate, cool down completely then store it in a clean glass container.
Dry Roast – Microwave Method
Yes, really – It’s really easy and quick. Just in 6 minutes and it’s done.
Take 50 gms of dry red chili in a baking tray or microsafe plate.
Microwave them on high powder for 6 minutes. Check them every 60 seconds to make sure that they don’t get burned. Then allow roasted dry red chili to cool down completely then transfer to a dry grinder. Make a fine powder. Store in an airtight container in a dry and cool place.
There are alternative methods to drying chili peppers like food dehydrators and even hanging the chilies in sunlight for a few weeks. They work too, but the oven is the quickest and easiest method.
How to make homemade red chili flakes? Two Methods – Pan and Microwave
Useful Tip : Be careful when handling chilies. Avoid contact with anything but the soap after handling chilies. Also not to take a big whiff after opening the lid of food chopper. If you are sensitive to working with hot peppers, also wear gloves while handling, and avoid touching your face until you’ve thoroughly washed your hands.
Homemade Red Chili Flakes
Mad About Cooking 