Rehydrating Dried Chili Peppers
When fresh Chinese chili peppers are unavailable, you can rehydrate dried chilies to soften their texture. This works for any recipe calling for fresh or dried peppers, as it makes the peppers more tender and palatable.Check the quality of the dried chili peppers. Good dried peppers still have their dark red color. Over time, dried chilies will begin to lighten as the dried flesh flakes off of the husk, leaving a faded or semi-translucent appearance. These should be discarded, as they have little flavor and will give your dish a gritty texture.
Yield: 1 batch
Cost: $1
Equipment
- 1 saucepan
- 2 serving bowls
Materials
- 1 batch Chinese chili peppers
Instructions
- Start with good quality dried peppers. Count out the amount needed for your recipe, and place them in a serving bowl.1 batch Chinese chili peppers
- Heat enough water in the saucepan to just cover the peppers. When the water is near to boiling pour it over the peppers until they are covered with water.
- Nest the second serving bowl over the first, to submerge the floating peppers. Set aside for 20 to 30 minutes.
Notes
The peppers will have a softer texture, easier to cut or chew. They won't have the full flesh of fresh peppers, but for dishes where the peppers are chopped, and thus eaten, they are more palatable.