How to identify the quality of dried chilies?

With an increasing number of dried chilies on the market, how can we identify their quality?

Generally, there are several identification criteria:

1. Shape

Good dried chilies are plump, with a skeletal appearance and a well-proportioned shape.

2. Color

The color is somewhere between dark red and dark red. A thin layer of oil emanates from the inside when exposed to light. This oil will naturally ooze out after a while if touched.

3. Aroma

The chili has a light, refreshing chili aroma that is not overpowering. The aroma becomes sweeter with repeated sniffing, and there is no pungent odor.

4. Taste

The most intuitive experience is a spicy, slightly sweet flavor without a strong irritation. Otherwise, it has been smoked with sulfur.

5. Touch

The dried chilies should feel dry to the touch, without any signs of moisture or softening.

How to test dried chilies:

Method 1: Soaking in water:

The water from soaking high-quality dried chilies is light brown; the water from soaking low-quality dried chilies is red.

Method 2: Hand-Pinching:

High-quality dried chilies feel dry and prickly when grasped. When twirled, they make a rustling sound and break apart with a gentle squeeze. Low-quality chilies won't break even with a firm squeeze.

Method 3: Tasting:

High-quality dried chilies have a more pronounced and long-lasting spicy flavor; low-quality chilies have a much less intense spicy flavor.

Method 4: Weighing:

High-quality dried chilies will feel very light when weighed. Low-quality chilies are heavier and often contain black chili seeds and stems.