-1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Crushed red pepper flakes, also known as chili flakes or red pepper flakes, are dried and coarsely crushed pods of hot chili peppers, typically from varieties such as Cayenne or other capsicum species. These flakes are characterized by their bright red color, irregular granular texture, and intensely pungent heat profile. The ingredient originates from dried red chili peppers and is a staple in Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin American cuisines. The heat level is measured in Scoville units and varies depending on the pepper variety used, ranging from moderate to very hot.

Common sources include Cayenne peppers, Thai chilis, and other red chili varieties. The flakes retain the seeds, which contain much of the capsaicin compound responsible for their characteristic heat. When freshly crushed, they offer a fruity, smoky undertone beneath the dominant spicy profile.

Crushed red pepper flakes are used as a finishing spice and heat element across numerous cuisines. In Italian cooking, they are sprinkled over pizzas, pasta dishes, and soups. In Asian cuisines, particularly Thai and Vietnamese, they add heat to stir-fries, curries, and dipping sauces. The flakes are also used in spice rubs for meats, sprinkled over roasted vegetables, and mixed into oils for drizzling. They can be toasted briefly in oil to intensify their flavor before adding other ingredients. The ingredient works well in both cooked dishes and as a final garnish, though their potency means they are best used judiciously.