Recipes That Bring That Sweet Heat

Many cultures around the world feature dishes that are sweet and spicy. It’s not surprising that you’ll find these spicy dishes in regions that have above-average temperatures for most of the year. Peppers prefer a long hot growing season, plus, when the temperature rises, dishes that contain high amounts of sugar and spice limit bacterial growth.

The bonus is that sweet and spicy work so well together. Our tastebuds are limited to tasting sweet, sour, bitter, salty and umami, but also react to the sensation caused by spice. Sugar tempers the burning effects of the capsaicinoids, the compounds in peppers and chilis that create the burning sensation. Whether you are a big fan of spice or have a serious sweet tooth, these recipes are sure to add just what your tastebuds are looking for.