Chili Sauce — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 5, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 101 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 23 g | 8.36% |
| Fiber | 2 g | 7.14% |
| Sugars | 18 g | 36% |
| Glycemic Index | 55 | - |
| Protein | 2 g | 4% |
| Sodium | 1100 mg | 47.83% |
| Total Fat | 0 | - |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
55
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- Enhances flavor of dishes, making meals more enjoyable and palatable.
- Contains antioxidants from chili peppers, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Supports metabolism due to capsaicin, which can increase calorie burning and reduce appetite.
- May support digestive health by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes.
Health risks
- High sodium content in many commercial chili sauces, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks when consumed frequently.
- Potential for digestive irritation causing heartburn, stomach pain, or diarrhea, particularly in individuals sensitive to spicy foods.
- Added sugars in some chili sauces, contributing to increased caloric intake and potential weight gain.
- Artificial additives and preservatives in some commercial chili sauces, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
How to choose chili sauce
Choose a chili sauce that has a deep red color and a smooth consistency without any separation of ingredients. Look for sauces that list chili as the first ingredient for a robust flavor.
Avoid sauces that rely heavily on vinegar or sugar, overpowering the chili flavor. Good chili sauce should offer a balance of heat and complexity.
How to store chili sauce
After opening, it’s important to refrigerate chili sauce to keep its flavor intact. Use an airtight container to avoid contamination and spoilage. When stored properly, chili sauce can remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 months.
High temperatures can compromise the quality of chili sauce, so it’s advisable to keep it away from warm environments. Avoid leaving the lid off, as this can lead to the sauce drying out. Make sure the container is securely closed to maintain its flavor and inhibit bacterial growth.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Chili sauce can last for 6 months to 1 year unopened when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within 1-2 months for the best quality. Always check for signs of spoilage before using.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover chili sauce can be used in a variety of dishes to add a spicy kick. Use it as a condiment for sandwiches, burgers, or wraps, or mix it into stir-fries with vegetables and protein. Chili sauce is also great as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, or chicken wings.
Use chili sauce as a base for a marinade for meats or as a glaze for grilled or roasted vegetables. If you have a lot of chili sauce, consider using it in a spicy pasta dish or mixing it into a soup or stew for extra heat. Chili sauce can also be added to a barbecue sauce for a fiery twist, or used in a taco filling with ground meat and vegetables. For a quick snack, try drizzling chili sauce over popcorn or using it as a dip for fries or chips.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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