Red chilli flakes are an indispensable ingredient that imparts fiery heat and vibrant flavour to Sri Lankan cuisine. As an integral element of the island nation's rich culinary heritage, these piquant flakes are sourced from locally grown chilli peppers, carefully sun dried and crushed to create a potent seasoning. With a history intertwined with trade, colonisation, and cultural exchange, red chilli flakes have become an emblem of the bold and diverse flavours that define Sri Lankan cooking. Whether used to lend depth to curries, elevate seafood or meat dishes, or enhance the complexity of condiments, these chilli flakes play a pivotal role in creating the distinct and tantalising taste that characterises Sri Lankan gastronomy.
Benefits of Chili Flakes
- Flavour Enhancement: Chili flakes add a robust and intense flavour to dishes, enhancing their overall taste profile.
- Heat and Spiciness: The natural heat of chilli flakes provides a pleasant and invigorating spiciness that can awaken the taste buds and elevate the dining experience.
- Appetite Control: The spiciness of chilli flakes may help regulate appetite and reduce overeating by promoting a sense of fullness.
- Digestive Health: Chili flakes can aid digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and promoting gut motility.
- Antioxidant Properties: Capsaicin in chilli flakes possesses antioxidant properties that can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
- Blood Circulation: The mild vasodilatory effect of capsaicin may promote improved blood circulation and cardiovascular health.
- Vitamin Content: Chili flakes contain vitamins such as vitamin C, which can contribute to immune system support and overall well-being.
How can chilli flakes be used in cooking?
Red chilli flakes can be effortlessly incorporated into a variety of dishes, offering a delightful burst of heat and flavour. To add a touch of spiciness, simply sprinkle a pinch of chilli flakes onto pizzas, pasta, or roasted vegetables for an instant zing. For a more profound infusion, sauté the flakes in oil to create a fragrant chilli oil that can be drizzled over stir-fries or noodle dishes. When crafting marinades, salad dressings, or dipping sauces, a controlled amount of chilli flakes can introduce complexity and depth to the flavours. Those seeking a bolder experience can use chilli flakes to create dry rubs for meats or even infuse them into homemade jams or chutneys for a unique and spicy twist. The versatility of red chilli flakes makes them an indispensable tool in the hands of culinary enthusiasts, adding a dynamic and invigorating element to a wide array of cuisines.
Spicy Tortilla Eggs Cups
Indulge in a symphony of flavours with our spicy baked tortilla egg cups. Each delectable bite unveils a harmonious blend of tender flour tortillas cradling a medley of red onions, olives and tomatoes, all kissed by the tantalising heat of red chilli flakes. Nestled within this vibrant ensemble is a luscious surprise – a perfectly baked egg with a velvety yolk that adds a rich, savoury dimension to the dish. As you savour the interplay of textures and the captivating spice, the melted cheese blankets the ensemble, wrapping it all in a creamy embrace. A garnish of fresh herbs crowns these miniature delights, elevating them from mere breakfast fare to a culinary masterpiece that tantalises the senses and leaves a lasting impression of warmth and satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 02 small tortillas
- ½ cup of chopped cherry tomatoes
- ½ cups of chopped onions
- 04 black olives - sliced - optional
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Tikiri Manike red chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs to garnish
Method
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
- Prepare Tortilla Cups: Gently press each tortilla into a muffin cup, shaping it to form a cup-like shape. Make sure the edges of the tortillas are slightly above the rim of the cups.
- Fill the tortilla cups - Add grated cheese and chopped tomatoes / onions into the cups equally. Crack Eggs: Carefully crack one egg into each tortilla cup, ensuring the yolk is intact. Season each egg with a pinch of salt,pepper and Tikiri Manike red chilli flakes and garnish with olives, and chopped herbs.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-18 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny. For fully cooked yolks, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish: Once the egg cups are cooked to your liking, remove them from the oven. Garnish with some more Tikiri Manike chilli flakes and fresh herbs
- Serve: Carefully remove the baked egg cups from the muffin tin using a spatula. Arrange them on a serving platter or individual plates. Serve the spicy baked tortilla egg cups warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavours and textures.
These spicy baked tortilla egg cups make for a delicious and visually appealing breakfast or brunch option, perfect for satisfying your cravings for a flavorful and protein-packed meal.
