The chilli pepper is famously present in Korean cuisine to the point of near ubiquity, and yet the plant is not native to Asia. It was the Europeans who brought the plant from its native Americas to the rest of the world.
When did chillies come to Asia?
The spread of chili peppers to Asia occurred through its introduction by Portuguese traders, who – aware of its trade value and resemblance to the spiciness of black pepper – promoted its commerce in the Asian spice trade routes. It was introduced in India by the Portuguese towards the end of the 15th century.
Where does the heat in chillies come from?
Kitchen Fact: A chile pepper’s spicy heat comes from the pith and ribs of the pepper, not the seeds. Capsaicin, which is the chemical compound that contains fiery heat, is actually concentrated in the inner white pith or rib of the chile pepper.