Ancho and chipotle chili peppers are available in the spice section of most grocery stores. They add the heat, so if you use the chili powder alternative, you may want to add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Everyday ground spices add oodles of flavour to simple ground beef. If spicy dishes are right up your alley, add a generous pinch of cayenne pepper along with the cumin and curry powder. Serve topped with a dollop of yogurt, if desired. Cost: $2.40/serving
The herbs and spices used in chorizo, a highly seasoned Mexican fresh pork sausage, highlight this slightly piquant patty. If you prefer a burger with tongue-tingling heat, increase the cayenne pepper to 1 tsp (5 mL). Serve sandwiched in warm tortillas or whole wheat hamburger buns.
Massaman curry powder is a blend of spices that has a bit of heat and a ton of flavour. If hot curry powder is unavailable, use regular curry powder and add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This topping goes well with Italian and veggie sausages. Serve with paratha and naan.
This tasty rice bowl is terrific with just about any kind of leftover cooked rice. Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper if you like heat , and top with more salsa for a hit of fresh flavour. For a decadent dinner, serve with tortilla chips – they make a crunchy, fun side.
Although oyster mushrooms have nothing to do with the dried oysters used to make oyster sauce, they are a lovely addition to the classic beef in oyster sauce. For extra spice, add a pinch or more of cayenne pepper to the beef marinade or increase the hot peppers. Green or red finger chilies are traditionally used in China, but jalape?are very nice, too.
Massaman curry powder is a bit hotter than regular grocery store curry blends. If you can't find it, mix regular curry powder with a pinch of cayenne pepper. And don't worry if you don't have an immersion blender for the sauce: A regular blender will work just fine too. If you're not avoiding dairy, a dollop of Balkanstyle plain yogurt on top is a nice way to cool the heat.
Ontario
Ontario strictly regulates farm-raised rainbow trout, so it's an environmentally responsible choice. Serve this crusty, crisp fish with either a green salad topped with crumbled bacon or a tangy coleslaw.
