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Welcome to the next installment of my Meet the Spice Blend series, where I'm sharing the inspiration for, back stories of, and uses for my ever-expanding collection of small batch, handcrafted spice blends. Next up, let's meet Six Alarm Crushed Chile!!
The Inspiration - Crushed Red Pepper... but Better
Take a peek in anyone's kitchen, and you're likely to find a crusty old jar of "Crushed Red Pepper." What kind of "red pepper" it contains is a mystery, which I've always found a bit baffling. There are so many kinds of chiles out there. Why don't they tell you which one(s) they use??? And so Six Alarm Crushed Chile was born. Named for the six different kinds of dried chiles it contains, I created Six Alarm Crushed Chile out of a burning desire to elevate the culinary experience and offer something far more intriguing and flavorful than that ubiquitous "Crushed Red Pepper." It is designed to satisfy the cravings of those seeking more than just heat but also depth and complexity in their dishes. By blending New Mexico chiles, California chiles, Guajillo chiles, Arbol chiles, Pasilla chiles, and Habanero chiles, Six Alarm Crushed Chile delivers a range of intensities that can't be found in generic crushed red pepper. It's a testament to the idea that even a common spice can be transformed into something exceptional through careful selection and craftsmanship.
Flavor Profile - Six Alarm Crushed Chile
Six Alarm Crushed Chile ignites the senses with a fiery fusion of some of the world's boldest chili peppers. Crafted in small batches, this blend showcases the rich flavors and distinctive heat profiles of New Mexico chiles, California chiles, Guajillo chiles, Arbol chiles, Pasilla chiles, and Habanero chiles. Each pepper contributes its unique character, from the smoky depth of the New Mexico chiles to the searing intensity of the Habaneros. Six Alarm Crushed Chile is the perfect addition to your culinary arsenal, allowing you to infuse your dishes with a delightful complexity and a tantalizing, tongue-tingling heat that will leave you craving more. It's the ultimate choice for those who dare to embrace the full spectrum of chili pepper intensity.
Versatility in the Kitchen - Six Alarm Crushed Chile
You probably already have your favorite ways to use Crushed Red Pepper, but here are some creative and delicious ways to incorporate Six Alarm Crushed Chile into your home cooking:
1. Spicy Pizza Sprinkle: Sprinkle Six Alarm Crushed Chile on your pizza for a tingly yet flavorful kick.
2. Flavorful Marinades: Create a fiery marinade for tofu, seafood, or vegetables by mixing the spice blend with olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and a touch of honey. Let your ingredients soak up the flavors before cooking.
3. Spicy Soups and Stews: Enhance the heat and depth of your soups, stews, and chili recipes by adding a pinch of Six Alarm Crushed Chile. It's a fantastic way to add complexity to your comfort food.
4. Homemade Salsas: Elevate your homemade salsa game by incorporating this spice blend. Combine it with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a spicy, flavor-packed salsa.
5. Spicy Roasted Vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables in olive oil, sprinkle them with Six Alarm Crushed Chile, and roast them in the oven for a fiery side dish that complements any meal.
6. Spicy Pasta Sauce: Stir this spice blend into your tomato-based pasta sauces for a zesty and spicy twist. It works wonderfully in both red and arrabbiata sauces.
7. Spicy Avocado Toast: Sprinkle a pinch of Six Alarm Crushed Chile over mashed avocado on toast for a quick and spicy breakfast or snack.
8. Hot and Spicy Popcorn: Mix a small amount of the spice blend with melted butter and drizzle it over freshly popped popcorn for a spicy movie night treat.
9. Spicy Guacamole: Add a bit of Six Alarm Crushed Chile to your guacamole for an extra kick. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos.
10. Spicy Grilled Vegetables: Coat sliced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant in olive oil and Six Alarm Crushed Chile before grilling them to perfection.
Remember that Six Alarm Crushed Chile is potent, so start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred level of heat. It's an excellent way to experiment with heat and flavor in your cooking, so don't be afraid to get creative and discover new taste sensations.
Ready to get your own Six Alarm Crushed Chile? Get it here.
