Red Bird’s Eye Chili

Cultivated with care on our farm in Kampot, the Red Bird’s Eye Chili originates from wild species seeds, giving this spice an unparalleled authenticity. The seeds were carefully harvested from the nearby forest, preserving the essence of this small-sized chili variety, now rare in Cambodian agriculture.

Our bird’s eye chilies are rooted in a precious botanical heritage. The wild species of Bird’s Eye Chili, from which the seeds were meticulously gathered, brings a genetic richness that showcases the exceptional biodiversity of the Kampot region.

By choosing to harvest seeds from the nearby forest, we contribute to the conservation of local biodiversity and the preservation of unique chili varieties that play an important role in the region’s ecosystem. This respectful approach to the wild origin of our Bird’s Eye Chilies also represents a return to the roots of chili cultivation in Cambodia. By reintroducing this rare variety, we honour traditions while offering an exceptional taste experience.

Red Bird’s Eye Chili embodies not only the authentic flavour of the wild but also a rediscovered culinary heritage. Each bite of these small chilies takes consumers on a sensory journey through the subtle flavours of the forest and Cambodian culinary tradition.

Our Bird’s Eye Chili is available in a dehydrated form, presenting this fiery little chili in all its integrity. Explore the multiple ways to incorporate this spicy ingredient into your culinary creations:

• Use a chili grinder to turn our Bird’s Eye Chilies into a fine, spicy powder. This method offers complete control over the intensity of the heat, allowing you to customise your dishes according to your preferences.
• Add Bird’s Eye Chilies to your dishes during cooking for a subtle infusion of heat. The small chilies gradually release their aromas and spiciness, allowing your dishes to benefit from a balanced flavour.
• Incorporate Bird’s Eye Chilies into your marinades and sauces to bring a spicy and fragrant touch to your meats, fish like with this delicious Sea bass Ceviche recipe, or vegetarian dishes. The slow infusion in liquids maximises the flavour impact.

For a more immersive culinary experience, crush the Bird’s Eye Chilies in a mortar using the traditional sugar palm mortar. This manual method fully releases the chili’s aromas, adding an authentic dimension to your dishes.

Start with a moderate amount of Bird’s Eye Chilies and adjust according to your heat tolerance. Feel free to experiment with different preparation methods to discover the one that best complements your dishes.

Our Bird’s Eye Chilies add a bold touch to various recipes, elevating the heat level and adding unmatched depth of flavour. Try them in dishes such as:

• Subtly integrate Bird’s Eye Chilies into chocolate mousse for an exciting contrast between the sweetness of the chocolate and the subtle heat of the small chilies.
• Add Bird’s Eye Chilies to a vegetable stir-fry for an explosion of flavours. Their spiciness pairs well with the freshness of sautéed vegetables.
• Incorporate these small chilies into a vegetable curry to give this classic dish a spicy and aromatic note.
• Prepare a homemade salsa with fresh tomatoes, onion, lime, and chilies for a spicy salsa that will awaken your taste buds.
• Enhance your curry blends (Red, Green, or Yellow) by adding Bird’s Eye Chilies, bringing vibrant and aromatic heat to your dishes. Whether for a vegetable, meat, or fish curry, these small chilies will add an exquisite dimension.
• Elevate your salsas and chutneys with the distinctive heat of Bird’s Eye Chilies. They will bring liveliness to your preparations, ideal for accompanying meat, fish, or even simple chips.
• Transform your pasta dishes by adding Bird’s Eye Chilies for a spicy note. Whether in a spicy tomato sauce or an aglio e olio, these small chilies will give character to your dishes. Enhance a tomato sauce for pasta by adding a few Bird’s Eye Chilies for a slight heat that perfectly complements the richness of the tomato.
• Surprise your palate by using Bird’s Eye Chilies to infuse your cocktails. Whether added to a refreshing mojito or a spicy Bloody Mary, these small chilies will bring an unexpected touch to your drinks.
• Infuse olive or sunflower oil with whole Bird’s Eye Chilies. Let it rest for a few days to allow the flavours to blend. Use this oil to drizzle over your pizzas, pastas, or grilled dishes.

Bird’s Eye Chili, like other chili peppers, offers several health benefits, but it is essential to consume it in moderation. The potential health benefits of Bird’s Eye Chili include:

The active compounds in chilies, such as capsaicin responsible for their heat, may stimulate metabolism. This can contribute to weight management.

Capsaicinoids have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help combat free radicals in the body, which may aid in the prevention of chronic diseases. Some studies suggest that capsaicin may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could be beneficial for managing inflammation in the body.

Moderate consumption of chilies can be associated with cardiovascular health benefits. It may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Consuming chilies can trigger the release of endorphins, the “happiness hormones,” which can contribute to a sense of well-being.

IMPORTANT: However, it is important to note that excessive consumption of chilies, particularly Bird’s Eye Chili, can cause gastrointestinal irritation, heartburn, and discomfort for some people. If you have gastrointestinal issues or pre-existing medical conditions, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before regularly adding hot chilies to your diet.

Our food-grade kraft tubes are designed to preserve the quality of our chilies. Store them in these airtight tubes, away from direct sunlight, in a cool, dry place.

Bird’s Eye Chilies should be kept in a cool, dry location. Avoid temperature fluctuations and exposure to moisture, as these can compromise the quality of the spice.

If you choose to use jars, opt for airtight glass or plastic containers. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent air and moisture from affecting the freshness of the chilies.

By following these simple recommendations, you will preserve the aromatic potency and characteristic spiciness of our Whole Bird’s Eye Chilies. Proper storage guarantees a maximum culinary experience with every use.