Red pepper flakes

Red pepper flakes are small, dried, and crushed fragments of red chilies, commonly used as a condiment to add a spicy flavor and a smoky touch to various dishes. They are characterized by their crunchy texture and intense red color, which adds visual appeal to preparations.

Their origin comes mainly from varieties of dried chilies, such as cayenne pepper or guajillo chili, which are ground after being dehydrated to obtain these flakes. They are very popular in Mexican cuisine and various Latin American gastronomies, as well as in Asian cooking.

Properties: Red pepper flakes are rich in capsaicin, the compound responsible for the spiciness, which can help stimulate metabolism and circulation. Additionally, they contain vitamins A and C, which provide antioxidant benefits.

In different regions of Hispanic America, red pepper flakes are also known as chile en hojuelas, ají molido (although the latter can also be made in a finer format), or simply as crushed dried chili. They are an essential ingredient in sauces, stews, marinades, and for sprinkling over pizzas, pastas, and salads, always providing a characteristic flavor and a pleasant heat.