Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne Pepper is named for its reputed region of origin, the Cayenne region of French Guiana. Ground from the dried, ripened fruit of small-fruited capsicums, the powder is a rich red-brown in color. In flavor, it is dusty, pungent, and slightly aromatic, but not as powerful as the hotter chile peppers. A versatile spice, it is sprinkled over soups and hors d’oeuvres, used as a condiment on seafood, and mixed into dry rubs, curries, casseroles, and stews. It adds a welcome piquancy to any dish.