Cayenne Chilli – Everyday Heat for Every Dish
What is Cayenne Chilli?
Cayenne is one of the world’s best-known chillies, famous for its clean, sharp heat and versatility. Used in cuisines across Asia, Africa, the Americas and Europe, it’s the go-to for adding instant warmth and colour to just about anything.
Also known as S4 Cayenne, this variety is the standard cayenne grade recognised by the Indian Spice Board, widely used in Indian cooking and spice blends. Whether in powder, flakes or whole pods, it delivers heat that’s hot but approachable, with a bright, almost citrusy edge.
When you see add chilli in a recipe this is the chilli they are talking about
Flavour Profile & Heat Level
Cayenne is all about balance — hot but not overwhelming, with a slightly tangy, fresh chilli flavour that cuts through rich and savoury dishes.
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Heat Level: Medium to Hot
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Scoville Rating: 20,000 – 40,000 SHU
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Flavour Notes: Bright, clean, slightly citrusy with consistent heat
Culinary Uses of Cayenne Chilli
Cayenne is a kitchen essential. Whether you’re making a dry rub, fiery sauce or classic curry, it brings the kind of heat that lifts flavour without taking over.
Popular uses include:
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Curries & spice blends – A staple in Indian, Caribbean and African recipes
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Chilli powders – Used in everything from Cajun blends to everyday hot sauce
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BBQ & marinades – Cayenne flakes give rubs a fiery kick
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Eggs, soups & stews – A dash of powder transforms simple dishes
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Health drinks – Often added to tonics or lemon water for its warming effect
It’s hot, yes – but it’s also smooth, reliable, and extremely easy to work with in all cuisines.
Why Buy Cayenne from CHILLIESontheWEB?
We stock true S4-grade Cayenne, grown and processed to exacting standards. Whether you’re after whole pods or powder, you’ll get that consistent heat and rich red colour trusted by spice merchants and chefs around the world.
Cheap cayenne can be pale, dusty or harsh — ours is vibrant, flavourful, and properly handled from field to pack. Great in blends, brilliant on its own — this is one chilli every kitchen needs.