Miracle ingredient: Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a popular spice that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is made from the dried and ground fruit of the cayenne pepper plant. For the brave, cayenne pepper is known for its fiery heat due to its high levels of a compound called capsaicin, but a little-known fact is that this compound also contains a number of nutrients that are beneficial for your overall health including,

• Treating pain, inflammation, and digestive problems.
• As a natural pain reliever. It works by blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals in the body.
• To improve circulation, this is because capsaicin causes the blood vessels to dilate.
• To boost metabolism and help with weight loss.
• To reduce inflammation throughout the body.

One of the most notable benefits of cayenne pepper is its ability to improve eye health. Cayenne pepper is a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C, both of which are essential for eye health. Vitamin A is necessary for the production of rhodopsin, a protein that helps us see in low light. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.

How to include cayenne pepper in your diet:

• Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to your favourite dishes, such as soups, stews, stir-fries, and sauces. Or sprinkle cayenne pepper on eggs, avocado toast, or salads.
• Make a cayenne pepper tea by steeping a teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder in hot water for 5 minutes.
• Add cayenne pepper to your smoothies or protein shakes.

Try one of our three quick recipes that use cayenne pepper:

SPICY CHIPOTLE GRILLED SHRIMP:

This recipe is perfect for a summer braai or a weeknight meal. You just need to marinate some shrimp in a spicy chipotle sauce made with mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Then grill them for a few minutes on each side until they are cooked through and charred. Serve them with some fresh coriander and lime wedges for a zesty and flavourful dish.

SWEET AND SPICY ALMONDS: 

These almonds are a great snack or appetizer that you can make in less than 30 minutes. You just need to toss some raw almonds with some melted butter, brown sugar, salt, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Then bake them in the oven until they are golden and crunchy. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a sweet and spicy treat.

MOROCCAN COUSCOUS:

This recipe is a delicious and easy way to make couscous with a Moroccan flair. Cook the couscous according to the package directions, then fluff it with a fork and stir in some raisins, almonds, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Serve it hot or cold as a side dish or a main course with some grilled chicken or lamb.

Start slowly and gradually increase the amount of cayenne pepper you use as you become more tolerant of its heat.  You can also use cayenne pepper powder in place of black pepper.  Be sure to drink plenty of water when you eat cayenne pepper to help reduce the heat.