Last Updated on March 29, 2023 by Lauren Beck
Spicy food lovers are always looking for the next big thing, the next dish that will set their tongues on fire and leave them gasping for air. But what is the hottest food in the world? Is it even safe to eat? And how spicy is too spicy?
In this article, we will explore these questions and more as we take a closer look at the world’s hottest food and the science behind spicy food.
15 Hottest Food in the World:
- Carolina Reaper Curry – Made with the world’s hottest chili pepper, the Carolina Reaper, this curry is not for the faint of heart.
- Ghost Pepper Vindaloo – A traditional Indian dish made with the infamous ghost pepper, this dish is known for its intense heat.
- Dynamite Chicken – Made with Thai bird’s eye chili peppers, this dish packs a serious punch.
- Szechuan Hot Pot – This Chinese dish is made with a spicy broth and a variety of meats and vegetables.
- Kimchi Jjigae – A Korean stew made with fermented cabbage and a variety of spicy ingredients.
- Jambalaya – This Cajun dish is known for its spicy andouille sausage and peppers.
- Nashville Hot Chicken – A Southern favorite, this chicken is marinated in a spicy buttermilk mixture and coated in a fiery hot sauce.
- Spicy Ramen – A Japanese noodle soup made with a spicy broth and a variety of toppings.
- Phaal Curry – Originating in India, this curry is made with a variety of spicy peppers and is not for the faint of heart.
- Spicy Tuna Roll – A popular sushi roll made with spicy mayo and raw tuna.
- Tom Yum Soup – A Thai soup made with a spicy broth and a variety of herbs and spices.
- Jerk Chicken – A Jamaican dish known for its spicy marinade and dry rub.
- Vindaloo – Another Indian dish, this curry is known for its fiery heat and bold flavor.
- Spicy Hunan Beef – A Chinese dish made with sliced beef and a spicy Hunan sauce.
- Peri Peri Chicken – A South African dish made with a spicy peri peri sauce.
How Hot Is Safe to Eat?
When it comes to spicy food, everyone’s tolerance is different. Some people can handle a lot of heat, while others can’t handle any at all. However, there is a limit to how hot food can be before it becomes dangerous to eat. According to experts, anything over 15 million Scoville units (the measure of spiciness) is considered unsafe to eat.
How Hot Can Food Be Eaten?
The maximum level of spiciness that a person can handle varies from person to person. However, it’s generally agreed that anything over 1 million Scoville units is extremely spicy and may be too hot for most people to handle.
Who Eats the Most Spicy Food?
People from countries with hot climates tend to eat spicier food, as it has been shown to help cool the body down. Countries like India, Thailand, and Mexico are known for their spicy cuisine.
How Spicy Is Wasabi?
Wasabi, often served with sushi, is known for its intense heat. However, most of the wasabi served in sushi restaurants is not real wasabi, but a mixture of horseradish, mustard, and food coloring. Real wasabi is much milder than the imitation version.
How Hot Is Too Hot for Our Bodies?
Eating extremely spicy food can be dangerous for some people, as it can cause gastrointestinal issues like stomach ulcers and acid reflux. However, for most people, eating spicy food in moderation is perfectly safe and may even have health benefits.
Are Spicy Foods Healthier?
Spicy foods have been shown to have a variety of health benefits [1]. For example, they may help to:
- Boost metabolism: Spicy foods can help to speed up your metabolism, which can aid in weight loss.
- Improve heart health: Eating spicy foods may help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Reduce inflammation: Spices like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce inflammation in the body.
- Boost mood: Eating spicy foods can trigger the release of endorphins, which are chemicals that make you feel good and can improve your mood.
Conclusion
From Carolina Reaper Curry to Peri Peri Chicken, the world is full of spicy dishes that can set your taste buds ablaze. While everyone’s tolerance for heat is different, it’s generally safe to eat food that falls below 15 million Scoville units. Spicy food can have a variety of health benefits, from boosting metabolism to improving heart health, so don’t be afraid to spice up your meals. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to try something new, there’s a spicy dish out there for everyone.
Reference:
- https://www.goodrx.com/well-being/diet-nutrition/is-eating-spicy-food-good-for-you#:~:text=The%20bottom%20line,even%20revving%20up%20your%20metabolism.
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