Archaeological evidence from Ecuador show that Chili peppers were in use more than 6000 years ago. Christopher Columbus was one of the first Europeans to find them in the Caribbean Islands, and he called them peppers because of the similarity of their taste to the black pepper. The Botanical names of the 2 common varieties of the Chili are the Capsicum annum L, and the Capsicum frutescens L. they belong to the Solanaceae family.
The Capsicum annum is a shrub, and it provides us with red peppers, cayenne, paprika and sweet pepper. Capicum frutescence produces small pods which are highly pungent. It is commonly known as 'bird chilly' or 'Tabasco'. The Chili is a native of South America. It is also found in all tropical and sub tropical countries including India. It was the Portuguese who introduced the Chili to India in the 15th century.
Dry Chili either whole or in the powder form is used in all curries. It forms one of the constituents of curry powder. Chili powder is used as a seasoning and in making pepper sauce and the favorite Tabasco sauce. Some red Chilies are grown only for their color. These when added to a dish, do not spice it, but ad a rich red color to it. This Chili is used in making many meat curries. They add the color, and a mild flavor without being pungent.
Chili is used in medicine as well. It acts as a counter irritant in Lumbago, Neuralgia, and Rheumatic disorders. Capsicum has both a tonic action and is a carminative. Of course, if too much Chili is eaten, it may cause irritation in the bowels and may even cause gastro-enteritis. The enzyme which is isolated from the Chili is used in certain kinds of cancer. Pain balms and vaporubs use Oleoresin capsicum. Very importantly, the green Chili is a good source of vitamin C.
In many homes red Chilies are dried out in the balcony or on the terrace. When they are dried crisp, the stems are removed and then they are sent for powdering. Some whole red Chilies are always kept in every kitchen. Red Chilies are used to ward off the evil eye. Green Chilies also are strung together and hung on the bumpers of cars as a charm against accidents. Green Chilies when used to flavor food give a very delicate flavor. There are some people, though, who like their food very spicy hot. There are peppers for ever palate!
Archaeological evidence from Ecuador show that Chili peppers were in use more than 6000 years ago. Christopher Columbus was one of the first Europeans to find them in the Caribbean Islands, and he called them peppers because of the similarity of their taste to the black pepper. The Botanical names of the 2 common varieties of the Chili are the Capsicum annum L, and the Capsicum frutescens L. they belong to the Solanaceae family.
