Hot Green Chili Peppers – Nutritional Information and Benefits
Hot green chili peppers, often regarded as a flavorful and spicy addition to various dishes, are not only packed with heat but also offer numerous health benefits. These peppers are a rich source of essential nutrients and antioxidants, making them a great choice for enhancing both the flavor and nutritional value of your meals. Whether you’re adding them to salsas, stews, or salads, these vibrant peppers bring an explosion of taste alongside an impressive nutritional profile.
Nutritional Breakdown (per 100g of Raw Hot Green Chili Peppers)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 40.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.021 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9.46 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugars | 5.1 g |
| Calcium | 18.0 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Magnesium | 25.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 46.0 mg |
| Potassium | 340.0 mg |
| Sodium | 7.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.3 mg |
| Copper | 0.174 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.237 mg |
| Selenium | 0.5 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 242.5 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.09 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.09 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.95 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.278 mg |
| Folate | 23.0 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 59.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.69 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Health Benefits and Usage
Rich in Vitamin C: Hot green chili peppers are an excellent source of Vitamin C, with 242.5 mg per 100g. This powerful antioxidant helps boost the immune system, promotes skin health, and supports the healing of wounds.
Boosts Metabolism: These fiery peppers contain capsaicin, a compound known to enhance metabolism, promote fat burning, and provide a thermogenic effect, making them a favorite in weight management diets.
Good Source of Minerals: Green chili peppers provide a variety of minerals like potassium (340 mg), iron (1.2 mg), magnesium (25 mg), and phosphorus (46 mg). Potassium helps maintain electrolyte balance, while magnesium and phosphorus are essential for bone health and energy production.
Supports Digestive Health: With 1.5 g of fiber per 100g, green chilies contribute to digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and supporting gut flora.
High in Vitamin A: The peppers also offer 59 mcg of Vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin integrity.
Rich in B-Vitamins: Hot green chili peppers contain several B-vitamins, including B1 (Thiamin), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B6 (Vitamin B6), and Folate. These vitamins play vital roles in energy metabolism, red blood cell production, and neurological health.
Allergen Information
Hot green chili peppers are generally considered safe for most individuals. However, they may cause discomfort or irritation for individuals with sensitivities to spicy foods or peppers. If you have a history of gastrointestinal issues or allergies to nightshades (a family of plants that includes peppers, tomatoes, and eggplants), it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating chili peppers into your diet.
Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-Free: Hot green chili peppers are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent choice for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly: These peppers are plant-based, so they are suitable for both vegan and vegetarian diets.
- Low-Calorie: At just 40 calories per 100g, hot green chili peppers are a low-calorie option for adding flavor without increasing caloric intake.
- Keto-Friendly: With only 9.46 g of carbs per 100g, hot green chili peppers can fit into a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
- Paleo-Friendly: They are also compliant with paleo diet principles, being a whole food source that aligns with the consumption of natural, unprocessed foods.
Cooking Tips
- Fresh and Raw: For a burst of heat and flavor, slice or chop fresh hot green chili peppers and add them to salads, salsas, or guacamole.
- Cooked or Grilled: Roasting or grilling these peppers can mellow their heat while enhancing their natural smoky flavor. Add them to soups, stews, or grilled meats for an added punch.
- Pickled: Pickling hot chili peppers is a great way to preserve their flavor while adding a tangy kick to dishes like tacos, sandwiches, and pizzas.
- Infused Oil: You can also infuse olive oil with green chili peppers to make a spicy oil perfect for drizzling over pasta, vegetables, or grilled meats.
Conclusion
Hot green chili peppers are a small yet mighty ingredient that packs both flavor and nutrition. Their versatility in the kitchen and impressive health benefits, such as boosting metabolism, supporting digestion, and enhancing immunity, make them a valuable addition to any diet. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or looking to incorporate more nutrient-dense foods into your meals, hot green chili peppers are a great choice. Embrace their heat and use them to spice up your favorite dishes while reaping their many health benefits.
