How do you calm the heat of chili powder?

During Cooking:

* Add Sugar or Honey: A small amount of sugar or honey can help balance the heat by providing sweetness.

* Acid: Adding a squeeze of lime juice, lemon juice, vinegar, or even tomato paste can help cut through the heat.

* Dairy: Milk, cream, or yogurt can help to cool the heat. They contain casein, a protein that binds to capsaicin (the chemical that causes heat) and prevents it from activating the heat receptors on your tongue.

* Sweet Vegetables: Adding sweet vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or squash can help mellow the heat.

* Liquids: Adding extra broth, water, or other liquids can help dilute the chili powder's concentration and lessen the heat.

After Cooking:

* Cooling Ingredients: Adding cooling ingredients like cucumbers, yogurt, or avocado after cooking can help soothe your mouth.

* Milk/Dairy: Drinking milk or eating yogurt after eating spicy food can help to cool down the heat.

* Bread or Rice: Starchy foods like bread or rice can help to absorb some of the heat.

Important Considerations:

* Don't Overdo It: Start with a small amount of chili powder and add more gradually, tasting as you go.

* Different Chili Powder Strengths: Remember that chili powder can vary in heat intensity. Some blends are milder than others.

* Personal Tolerance: Everyone's spice tolerance is different. What's hot for one person may be mild for another.

Let me know if you have any other questions!