How to avoid green chili seeds spreading spice unevenly?

Question

Learn how to control chili seeds for even spice distribution in your dishes.

Answer 1

To prevent uneven spice distribution from green chili seeds, remove most of the seeds before chopping or processing the chilies. For a milder flavor, remove all the seeds and the white membrane.

Detailed Explanation:

The heat in green chilies is concentrated in the seeds and the white membrane (placenta) inside the chili. When you chop or grind chilies, the seeds can easily separate and clump together, leading to some bites being overwhelmingly spicy while others are bland. Here's how to avoid this:

1. Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from the chili's oils, which can cause burning sensations.

2. Cut the Chili: Slice the chili lengthwise.

3. Remove Seeds: Use a small spoon or the tip of your knife to scrape out most of the seeds and the white membrane. You don't need to remove every single seed, but aim to get rid of the majority.

4. Chop or Process: Now you can safely chop, mince, or blend the chilies without worrying about uneven spice distribution.

5. Adjust to Taste: If you want a milder flavor, remove all the seeds and membrane. If you prefer a bit more heat, leave a few seeds in.

Pro Tip:

If you accidentally add too many chili seeds to your dish, try adding a dairy product like yogurt or cream. Dairy helps to neutralize the capsaicin (the compound that makes chilies spicy) and reduce the overall heat.