Chilli

Why Chilli Pastes Are Important in Cooking? 

Using fresh chillies can be challenging due to their inconsistent spice levels and the time required to prepare them. Red Chilli Pastes, on the other hand, provides several benefits: 

• Convenience: Ready-to-use pastes eliminate the need for chopping, grinding or deseeding chillies. 
• Consistency: Each jar contains a balanced spice and flavour, ensuring predictable results. 
• Versatility: Chilli pastes can be used in a variety of dishes, from curries to marinades and stir-fries. 
• Longevity: Pastes have a longer shelf life and retain their flavour over time, unlike fresh chillies. 

Uses of Chilli Pastes in Cooking 

1. Indian Chilli Paste 

Indian chilli paste is crafted with authentic spices and chillies, making it ideal for traditional Indian dishes. 

Uses: 

• Adds heat to curries, gravies and lentil dishes. 
• Perfect for marinades, especially for tandoori dishes. 
• Enhances chutneys and dips for an extra kick. 

Why It's Essential: Indian dishes often rely on a balance of spices and heat, and this paste provides the perfect base for achieving authentic flavours. 

2. Red Chilli Paste 

Known for its rich colour and bold heat, red chilli paste is versatile and works across various cuisines. 

Uses: 

• Great for thickening and spicing up curries and sauces. 
• Perfect for making hot and spicy soups. 
• A key ingredient in homemade chilli oil. 

Why It's Essential: It delivers vibrant colour and fiery flavour, making it an indispensable ingredient for spicy dishes. 

3. Chinese Chilli Paste 

Chinese chilli paste is a staple in Asian cooking, known for its unique blend of spices and oils. 

Uses: 

• Adds depth to stir-fries, noodles and fried rice. 
• Works as a dipping sauce or condiment for dumplings and spring rolls. 

Why It's Essential: Chinese cuisine often combines spice with umami flavours and this paste brings the perfect balance of heat and complexity. 

How to Use Chilli Pastes in Everyday Cooking? 

Using chilli pastes is incredibly simple and versatile. Here are some ideas to get you started: 

• As a Base: Use it as a foundation for curries, soups and stews. 
• In Marinades: Mix with yogurt, lemon juice and spices for a quick and flavourful marinade. 
• For Stir-Fries: Add a spoonful of paste for an instant flavour boost. 
• As a Dip: Mix with soy sauce or vinegar for a spicy dipping sauce. 
• In Fusion Dishes: Combine with pasta sauces or pizza toppings for a creative twist. 

Shop online for high-quality pastes. 

Bring authentic heat and flavour to your kitchen with Vel Spices' range of Indian, red, and Chinese chilli paste.