People have been using chilies to give their food flavor as far back as back to 7000 BC. Columbus brought Chilies back to the Old World. Although chilies make food fiery and sharp, they are still loved as part of the common diet in many parts like Africa, India, Southeast Asia, and parts of China.
When consumed, chilies tend to produce a burning sensation on the tongue and can also make eyes water. This is due to their intense flavor. Certain chilies like capsicum can also aid in alleviating pain by reducing ‘Substance P,’ a neurotransmitter that sends signals of pain to the brain.
Chilies can also help in weight reduction and curing depression. They are also good at reducing inflammation and high cholesterol levels. Another major health benefit of chilies is that they can prevent cancer as some of its ingredients protect cells from harmful cancer-causing molecules. Chilies also stimulate digestion as digestive fluids in the stomach increase if you include chili in your food.
Let’s look at some healthy spicy snacks that are easy to prepare and a delight to the taste buds.
Healthy Spicy Snacks Discussed
- Hot Sauce Popcorn
- Wasabi Peas
- Spicy Guacamole
- Chilli Edamame
- Jalapeno Poppers
- Spicy Cheese Bites
Hot Sauce Popcorn
Popcorn can either be very healthy or very unhealthy, depending on how you prepare it. If prepared with large amounts of sugar, salt, and fat, it can be detrimental to your health. But if made at home, it’s a great snack with many health benefits. Homemade air-popped popcorn is a great, healthy snack. It is packed with nutrients such as fiber which is excellent at aiding digestion. No wonder popcorn is a favorite throughout the world! Hot sauce popcorn is easy to prepare and gives a nice twist to the classic salted popcorn. Simply stir and pop your popcorn and sprinkle it with hot sauce to make hot sauce. You can use any hot sauce you like, such as tobacco. This will spice your popcorn up and give it a unique taste.
Wasabi Peas
Wasabi peas have a strong taste that is sure to stand out! But if you’re a fan of Wasabi peas, you’re lucky because it is a great spicy snack. Wasabi peas are also packed with protein and help you stay fuller for longer. Wasabi peas also contain dietary fiber that helps maintain a healthy weight and lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Also, Wasabi peas are low on sodium and calories, thus making this a great snack even if you are trying to lose weight. If tired of snacking on mixed nuts, try wasabi peas. This plant-based snack is highly nutritious and will add a tasty zing to your day.
Spicy Guacamole
If you’re a fan of healthy spicy snacks, spicy guacamole is an excellent option. You can make your guacamole as hot as you want by adding more chilies. Do remember that smaller chilies tend to be spicier than larger ones. Chilies are also a great addition to your guacamole as they elevate the nutritional value of the entire meal. Typically, guacamole is made from avocado, lime juice, salt, onions, cilantro, and peppers. You can spice up your guacamole by adding hot sauce, jalapenos, and chili peppers. Guacamole is usually also lower in calories than other dips making this an excellent snacking option.
Chilli Edamame
Edamame beans are full of fiber and high-quality protein. Thoroughly cooking Edamame beans and tossing them in chili pepper-based seasoning and hot sauce can make a delicious snack. If you love spicy food, you’ll love how it leaves your mouth on fire. You can easily prepare chili Edamame at home, steaming or boiling the beans until they are warmed and bright green. Then drain them and season them in seasoning and hot sauce, and you have your delicious snack!
Jalapeno Poppers
Jalapeno poppers are a great low-carb snack. These spicy poppers will lift your entire day full of delicious cheese and cream cheese. You can easily prepare jalapeno poppers with key ingredients such as jalapeno, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and green onions. You can always prepare them and freeze them in a Ziplock bag if you love this snack. When in the mood to eat, bake your jalapeno poppers in the oven for 20-25 minutes. If you are not a fan of cream cheese, you can always substitute the poppers with any variety, such as cheddar or goat’s cheese. If in the mood for meat, feel free to add meat diced sausages or bacon to the poppers.
Spicy Cheese Sticks
Pairing peppers are becoming increasingly popular with cheeses. Spicy cheese is an excellent snack because the heat complements the buttery, creamy cheese notes. Pairing cheese and peppers together is fun to include heat in your food. Peppers can add variety and zing to almost any type of cheese. The most popular cheese option to pair spicy peppers with is mild cheddar, Colby, Gouda, and Monterey Jack. Spicy Cheeses are a great snack that is simple to avail and carries. Whether you are at work and want to eat something energizing or relaxing at home and watching TV, spicy cheese is great to snack on.
Our Final Thoughts
What is it about spicy snacks that make them so delicious? Combinations of Jalapeños, lime, and lemon are hard to resist, especially in the form of crunchy snacks! When it comes to preparing healthy spicy snacks, be creative! Snacking on the above-listed items like hot sauce popcorn, wasabi peas, and spicy cheese is unique yet nutritious and filling. Preparing spicy snacks at home can help you tremendously. These snacks are low in calories and make you feel great. They are a great alternative to snacking on store-bought crackers and chips high in carbs and cholesterol. They also contain preservatives that are detrimental to health. Natural spices are great for your body and mind. If you love spices, incorporate them into preparing healthy spicy snacks and give your taste buds a treat.
