How can you make something less spicy?

There are several ways to make something less spicy, depending on the dish and your preference:

Before cooking:

* Use less chili: If you're adding chili peppers, start with less than the recipe calls for and adjust as needed.

* Choose milder peppers: There's a wide range of chili peppers, from very mild to extremely hot. Choose a milder variety like bell peppers, poblano peppers, or Anaheim peppers instead of jalapeños or habaneros.

* Deseed the peppers: The seeds and membrane of chili peppers contain most of the capsaicin, which is the compound that makes them spicy. Removing them can significantly reduce the heat.

* Soak the peppers: Soaking chili peppers in water or vinegar for 30 minutes to an hour can help to extract some of the heat.

During cooking:

* Add more liquid: Adding more liquid to a dish can dilute the spiciness. This could be water, broth, milk, or even yogurt.

* Use acidic ingredients: Acids like vinegar, lemon juice, or tomatoes can help to balance the heat and make the dish more palatable.

* Add sugar or honey: A touch of sweetness can help to counter the spiciness. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much sugar can make the dish taste strange.

After cooking:

* Add dairy: Milk, yogurt, or cream can help to neutralize the capsaicin in chili peppers and make the dish less spicy.

* Use cooling ingredients: Ingredients like cucumbers, cilantro, mint, or ginger can help to cool your mouth and provide a refreshing contrast to the spiciness.

* Serve with rice or bread: These can help to absorb some of the spiciness.

Important Note: The best way to reduce spiciness will vary depending on the dish. Experiment with different methods until you find one that works for you.

Let me know if you have a specific dish in mind and I can provide more targeted advice.