Many people do not realize that a spice is different than an herb. A spice comes from the buds, roots, bark, seeds, and berries of a plant, but an herb only comes from the leaves of a plant. According to the Colorado State University Extension, combining herbs and spices in vegetable dishes helps in increasing the antioxidant properties of fruits and vegetables. Capsaicin in crushed red pepper may be helpful in boosting weight loss, says Colorado State University Extension, and add a nice spicy flavor to many dishes. While crushed red pepper is relatively inexpensive in stores it is not always fresh. To ensure freshness it's always best to dry and crush your red pepper yourself.
Instructions
1. Set the oven to broil.
2. Wash the hot peppers in cold running water, and towel dry thoroughly.
3. Place the hot peppers on the cookie sheet, and cover them with a layer of tin foil. Stick the cookie sheet in the oven until the hot peppers turn dark brown. Take out, and let cool for 10 minutes.
4. Crush the hot peppers by hand using your fingers to crush them. Or place them in a blender, and turn it to the crushed ice setting for 5 to 10 seconds. Use immediately or place in the baggie for later use.
Tags: Colorado State, Colorado State University, comes from, cookie sheet, crushed pepper, State University, State University Extension
