Spice Heat Level Calculator
Measure and adjust the heat level of your dishes using the Scoville scale.
🌡️ Scoville Scale Reference
🔬 Understanding Scoville Units
The Scoville scale measures the concentration of capsaicinoids, the compounds responsible for the heat in peppers. Developed by Wilbur Scoville in 1912, it's the standard measurement for pepper heat.
How It Works:
- Higher Scoville units = More heat
- Measurements can vary within pepper varieties
- Growing conditions affect heat levels
- Seeds and membranes contain the most capsaicinoids
🥛 Managing Spice Heat
To Reduce Heat in Cooking:
- Remove seeds and white membranes
- Use dairy products (yogurt, cream, milk)
- Add sugar or sweetener
- Include starchy foods (rice, bread, potatoes)
- Dilute with more non-spicy ingredients
If It's Too Hot:
- DO: Drink milk, eat ice cream, or yogurt
- DO: Eat bread or rice to absorb oils
- DON'T: Drink water (spreads capsaicinoids)
- DON'T: Drink beer (alcohol can intensify heat)
🇮🇳 Indian Pepper Heat Guide
Kashmiri Red Chili: ~2,000 SHU
Mild heat with beautiful red color, perfect for vibrant curries.
Byadgi Chili: ~8,000 SHU
Medium heat, popular in South Indian cuisine.
Guntur Chili: ~35,000 SHU
Hot variety from Andhra Pradesh, used in spicy dishes.
Teja Chili: ~75,000 SHU
Very hot, used sparingly in traditional recipes.
❓ Heat Level FAQ
Why do the same peppers vary in heat?
Growing conditions, soil, weather, and harvesting time all affect capsaicinoid levels. Even peppers from the same plant can vary.
Can you build tolerance to spicy food?
Yes! Regular consumption of spicy food can increase your tolerance over time as your taste buds adapt to capsaicinoids.
Are there health benefits to spicy food?
Capsaicinoids may boost metabolism, reduce inflammation, and provide pain relief. However, extremely hot foods should be consumed with caution.