Sriracha: A Culinary Journey

Hailing from the coastal city of Si Racha in Thailand, Sriracha has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. It is a popular ingredient in Thai cuisine, adding a burst of heat and complexity to dishes like pad Thai and Tom Yum soup. In recent years, Sriracha has gained global recognition, becoming a beloved condiment in countries across the world.

The versatility of Sriracha extends beyond its culinary applications. It can be used as a dipping sauce for appetizers, a marinade for grilled meats, or an ingredient in salad dressings and sauces. Its unique flavor profile, characterized by a balanced blend of heat and tang, complements a wide range of dishes.

Health Benefits of Sriracha

Beyond its culinary delights, Sriracha offers potential health benefits. It is a good source of vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for maintaining a strong immune system. Additionally, Sriracha contains capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers that has been linked to various health benefits, including:

  • Pain relief: Capsaicin has analgesic properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation.

  • Improved digestion: Capsaicin stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes, promoting better digestion.

  • Reduced risk of heart disease: Studies suggest that capsaicin may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

  • Antioxidant activity: Capsaicin is a potent antioxidant that can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Nutritional Profile of Sriracha

Serving Size: 1 teaspoon (5g)

  • Calories: 6
  • Protein: 0.1g
  • Fat: 0.1g
  • Carbohydrates: 1.2g
  • Fiber: 0.1g
  • Sugar: 1g

Conclusion

Sriracha, with its fiery kick and health-promoting properties, has earned its place as a culinary star. Its versatility and unique flavor profile make it a welcome addition to a wide range of dishes. Additionally, its potential health benefits, including pain relief, improved digestion, and reduced risk of heart disease, make it a condiment worth incorporating into your diet. Whether you enjoy it as a dipping sauce, marinade, or ingredient in sauces and dressings, Sriracha is sure to ignite your taste buds and enhance your well-being.

How many calories are in Sriracha?

Each 1 tsp of Sriracha contains 6 calories.

Sriracha Nutritional Information

Nutrient Amount per 1 tsp (6.5g)
Calories 6 Calories
Protein 0.1g
Fat 0.1g
Saturated Fat g
Cholesterol mg
Carbohydrates 1.2g
Dietary Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 1g
Sodium 0.138mg
Potassium 0.0209mg
Calcium 0.0012mg
Iron 0.0001mg