International cuisine - The Chilli Workshop

Sweet Chilli dressing

CGS International cuisine 19th July 202422nd July 2024 0 Comment

More than a salad dressing

Sweet chilli dressing is a real favourite that’s found its way into kitchens and hearts all over the world. Known for its perfect mix of sweetness and heat, this versatile condiment can turn the simplest of dishes into something special. Imagine the tangy sweetness hitting your taste buds, followed by a gentle kick of heat that leaves you wanting more. Whether you’re drizzling it over a fresh salad, using it as a marinade for grilled meats, or even as a dipping sauce for your favourite starters, sweet chili dressing adds a vibrant and exciting flavour that makes every bite a delight. It’s not just for salads either; think of using it as a glaze for roasted veg, a topping for tacos, or even mixed into a creamy pasta salad for a surprising twist.

The adaptability and versatility of sweet chili dressing and its unique taste make it a favourite among food lovers who enjoy experimenting and adding a bit of flair to their meals. Its beauty is its ability to complement all sorts of ingredients and cuisines, making it a staple in many homes. From the crisp freshness of a garden salad to the savoury richness of grilled chicken, this dressing fits right in, adding a touch of excitement and flavour that feels both familiar and new. It’s perfect for drizzling over a summer fruit salad with watermelon and mint, or mixing into a quinoa bowl with roasted chickpeas and avocado. The versatility of sweet chili dressing means it can even be a flavour boost in stir-fries or a unique pizza topping. Its balance of sweet and spicy notes allows it to bridge the gap between different culinary traditions, making it an excellent choice for fusion dishes. Home cooks and professional chefs alike appreciate its ability to elevate simple ingredients, transforming everyday meals into something special. Moreover, the dressing’s popularity has led to numerous homemade variations, allowing individuals to customize the flavors to their personal preferences and dietary needs.

Sweet chilli dressing started off in Thai cuisine, where it’s a staple in many traditional dishes. Over time, it’s made its way into kitchens around the world, with each culture adding its own twist to the classic recipe. This global journey has created many variations, each with its own distinct taste. Whether it’s the tangy Vietnamese Nuoc Cham, the fiery Korean gochujang blend, or the zesty Mexican version with lime and coriander, sweet chilli dressing has been embraced and reimagined everywhere. It’s used in everything from Vietnamese noodle salads and Korean BBQ marinades to Mexican street corn.

Sweet Chilli chicken wings

Stoffel International cuisine 17th July 202418th July 2024 0 Comment

Some history

The history of crispy chicken wings, particularly those paired with a sweet chilli sauce, is rooted in a blend of culinary traditions from around the world. The concept of frying chicken has been a staple in various cultures for centuries, with the Chinese, Scots, and West Africans all having their versions of fried chicken.

The modern popularity of chicken wings can be traced back to the United States in the mid-20th century. Specifically, the creation of Buffalo wings in Buffalo, New York, in 1964, marked the beginning of the chicken wing craze. This original Cooking with Chillies. Hot sauces version featured deep-fried wings coated in a spicy vinegar-based cayenne pepper hot sauce and served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.

Sweet chilli sauce, on the other hand, has its origins in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. This sauce, known for its balance of sweetness and heat, is traditionally made from red chillies, vinegar, sugar, and garlic. It is widely used as a dipping sauce and in various dishes across Asian cuisines.

The combination of crispy chicken wings with sweet chilli sauce likely emerged as part of the global fusion cuisine trend, where chefs and home cooks began blending elements from different culinary traditions. This fusion dish captures the essence of American comfort food and the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine, resulting in a deliciously satisfying dish. Today, it is a popular appetizer and party food enjoyed by people all over the world, showcasing the versatility and universal appeal of both crispy chicken wings and sweet chilli sauce.

Chilli in Vinegar recipe

CGS International cuisine 15th July 202415th July 2024 0 Comment

A Global Culinary Tradition

Chillies in vinegar is a widespread practice across many cultures, each adding its unique twist to this age-old preservation method. By immersing chillies in vinegar, their shelf life is extended significantly, allowing people to enjoy their fiery flavour long after the harvest season. This method not only preserves the chillies but also transforms them into a versatile condiment that can be used in various culinary applications. The resulting mixture adds a distinctive heat and tang to countless dishes, enhancing flavours and introducing a delightful kick.

The practice of preparing chillies in vinegar is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many regions. Each culture has developed its unique way of preparing and using pickled chillies, reflecting local tastes, available ingredients, and culinary customs. In some regions, the process involves adding spices, herbs, or other vegetables to the vinegar brine, creating complex flavour profiles that go beyond the simple combination of heat and acidity. This customisation showcases the creativity and resourcefulness of different culinary traditions.

In Southeast Asia, for example, chillies in vinegar are a common sight in many households and restaurants. Thai “Prik Nam Som” and Vietnamese pickled chillies are just a few examples of how this condiment is used to enhance noodle soups, stir-fries, and other dishes. In Latin America, Mexican “escabeche” and Peruvian “rocoto en escabeche” illustrate the region’s love for combining chillies with other vegetables and spices to create colourful and flavourful accompaniments. Each preparation not only preserves the chillies but also elevates the dishes they accompany.

Similarly, in the Caribbean, Europe, the Indian subcontinent, and beyond, chillies in vinegar hold a special place in the culinary landscape. From Trinidadian “pepper sauce” and Hungarian pickled cherry peppers to Indian pickled chillies and 腌制辣椒 ( Chinese pickled chillies) , these condiments bring a burst of flavour to everyday meals. They are used to add heat and acidity to various dishes, from simple snacks to elaborate feasts. This global appreciation for chillies in vinegar underscores their versatility and enduring appeal in cuisines around the world.