Q: Mr. DeWitt,I began making and selling my own hot sauces about 6 months ago. I am also working toward my MBA, and for my final project, I am writing a business plan for my business in the hopes of making a good grade, and more importantly, in the hopes of getting my business off the ground. I would be …
Damaged Taste Buds
Q: Dave,Is it possible to damage the heat sensors on the tongue? I’ve been eating chiles for years, but they just aren’t what they used to be.Thanks, Jim A: Hello Jim:Indeed, extremely hot chiles or hot sauce can damage your taste buds. However, the body replaces them every two weeks anyway, so any damage is temporary. For more information on this …
Gustatory Perspiration (Cold Sweat, Courtesy of Capsaicin)
Q: Hey Dave,I usually spice up my canned chicken chili lunch with a drop or two of some super hot sauce. Today I put in a bit more than I wanted, but ate the chili, mouth burning, anyway. Near the end of the meal I broke out in a cold sweat. It felt like my body was going into shock. …
Fermenting Peppers
Q: Dear Dave,What is the process for fermenting peppers? I have heard that it is suppose to make them hotter?Thanks! –Cecil A: Hello Cecil:Chiles are fermented during the process of making mash, a preservation technique. The pods are ground in a hammer mill and placed in vats with 10 to 15 percent salt by weight. They ferment and can be kept …
Capsicum As Spicy Additive
Q: Dear Dave,I am a chef and am starting my own business and restaurant. I have been making my own hot sauces and other pepper products for years, but was wondering where I can get a little extra kick. I have heard of people using capsicum. Is this available to the public? Any other additives known for spicing it up?Thank …