How much chili paste equals one pepper?

* Chili paste varies: The heat level, consistency, and ingredients of chili paste can change drastically depending on the brand, recipe, and peppers used.

* Peppers vary: Different pepper varieties have vastly different levels of heat (Scoville units). A jalapeno is much milder than a habanero.

* Chili paste is concentrated: Chili paste is a concentrated form of peppers, meaning the heat is condensed down.

To estimate:

* Start with a small amount: Begin with a tiny amount of chili paste and taste it.

* Adjust gradually: Add more chili paste very slowly until you reach the desired level of heat.

* Consider the pepper's heat: If you're using a milder pepper like a bell pepper, you'll need much more chili paste to achieve the same level of heat as a habanero.

Remember: It's always best to start small and adjust gradually to avoid an overly spicy dish!