Stuff You Should Know Selects: How Chili Peppers Work
Feb 20, 2021
Chili peppers have an intriguing history, tracing back to South America and their introduction to Europe by Columbus. The podcast reveals the surprising use of chili-related music in torture settings and explores the science behind their heat, including the famous Scoville scale. Learn how peppers can impact mood and the concept of benign masochism found in spice lovers. With practical tips on handling spice and the vibrant community of chili enthusiasts, the episode serves up both laughs and valuable insights about these fiery fruits.
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Red Hot Chili Peppers at Guantanamo
- Josh Clark mentions the Red Hot Chili Peppers' use in Guantanamo Bay interrogations.
- Chuck Bryant planned to quote the band but was surprised by their use in torture.
Chili Terminology and Cajun Cooking
- Chili peppers are called "chilies" by chefs to save time.
- Bell peppers, celery, and onions form the "trinity" of Cajun cooking.
Chili Pepper Misnomer
- The term "chili" comes from the Aztec Triple Alliance in Mesoamerica.
- Columbus mistakenly called them "chili peppers," believing them related to black pepper.