What cools down spicy Mexican takeout food leftovers?

While there's no magic bullet to instantly cool down spicy food, here are some tips to help:

1. Dilution and Cooling:

* Water: Drinking plenty of water will help dilute the spice and cool your mouth down.

* Milk or Yogurt: Dairy products contain casein, which binds to capsaicin (the compound that makes chili peppers spicy), helping to neutralize its effect.

* Sweet Foods: Something sweet, like fruit or juice, can help mask the heat.

* Ice Cream: A classic for a reason. The coldness and sweetness work in tandem.

2. Food-Based Solutions:

* Rice: Plain rice absorbs some of the heat, especially if you mix it into the food.

* Sour Cream or Guacamole: These creamy accompaniments can help cool down the fire.

* Pickled Onions or Jalapeños: The acidity can help counter the heat.

3. Cooling Down the Food Itself:

* Refrigerate: If you're not eating it right away, store the food in the fridge. This will cool down the temperature of the food itself.

* Microwave: You can slightly microwave the food, then let it cool. This can help distribute the heat more evenly, making it less intense.

Important Note: While these tips can help, they won't eliminate the heat entirely. It's always best to start with a small portion of spicy food and assess your tolerance before diving in!