I have to confess something: chillies are one of my absolute favorite things to grow. In fact, they’re one of the main reasons I started this gardening journey in the first place! My love for these fiery little wonders has deep roots, and I owe it all to my grandpa, a true “chilli head.”
Grandpa was more than just a fan of chillies; he was a fanatic! He had a knack for discovering new varieties and even created his own hybrids, importing seeds from all corners of the globe. His passion for chillies was contagious, and it’s a thrill that has been passed down to me.
Delicious Recipes to Spice Up Your Kitchen
If you’re as passionate about chillies as I am, you’re going to love these recipes. They’re simple, flavorful, and the perfect way to elevate your meals.
Chilli Salt
A versatile seasoning that adds a fiery kick to any dish!
Ingredients:
- Any chilli variety
- Coarse salt
- Dehydrator or oven
Instructions:
- Use a dehydrator or an oven to dry out your chillies and salt.
- Grind them once they’re completely dry.
- Store in an airtight container and sprinkle over salads, veggies, or any meal for an extra zing! It could last from 6 months up to 1 year.
Chilli Chutney
A sweet and spicy condiment that pairs beautifully with cheeses, meats, or even as a spread on sandwiches.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg apple (peeled, cored, and chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 onion
- 2 red chillies
- 60 g fresh ginger
- 180 g brown sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 cups cider vinegar
Instructions:
- Chop and combine all ingredients in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about an hour, until thickened.
- Pour into sterilized jars and seal. Enjoy this chutney with your favorite dishes! You can store it inside a refrigerator and consume it within 1-2 months.
Stir-Fried Chilli Leaves
My favorite! You can imagine my excitement when I stumbled upon the concept of chilli leaves stir fry. The moment I tasted it, I was blown away by the incredible flavors. Who knew these often-overlooked leaves could taste this good?
Ingredients:
- 400 g chilli leaves (without stems)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves
- Fresh chillies
- 1 tsp sugar
- Ground peanuts
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and add chopped garlic cloves.
- Once the garlic is golden brown, toss in the chilli leaves and fresh chillies.
- Sprinkle in the sugar and stir-fry for a few minutes until the leaves are tender.
- Top with ground peanuts for an added crunch. Serve hot and enjoy!
There’s something incredibly rewarding about growing your own food, especially when it comes to chillies. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, I encourage you to give it a try. Not only will you add some heat to your dishes, but you’ll also experience the joy and satisfaction that comes with nurturing these delicious plants.
Try the 3 recipes and let’s keep the chilli passion alive together!
Happy gardening!
