The Heat Is On
00:17:03
The Spicy Science of Chili Peppers
What gives the hot habanero and mild jalapeño their “heat profile”?
What Put the Heat in Chili Peppers?
New research indicates that chili pepper plants may have developed their signature heat as a way to fight off fungal infections caused by insects.
Cultivating the Perfect Chili Pepper
If you’ve had supermarket salsa, you’ve probably eaten one of Ed Curry’s chili peppers. Visit his farm and find out how the heat gets in chilis.
17:24
Serving Up the Origins of the Chicken and Chili Pepper
Scientists are combining genetics and linguistics to trace the origins of these staples of the modern-day menu.
Chile Peppers
In this segment, live from Tucson, Arizona, we’ll take a scientific look at the chile pepper, from the chemistry and biology of a pepper’s burn, to the psychology of why some people like it hot. Grab some salsa and listen in!
21:44
Concocting Condiments
Culinary scientist Ali Bouzari dips into the chemistry behind condiments, from hot sauce to mustard.
The Hottest Pepper in the World
Consuming the Carolina Reaper is “kind of like eating molten lava.”
The Agony And Ecstasy Of Capsaicin
Marco Tizzano explains how capsaicin creates a chemical cascade inside your body and why emotions might make chili lovers think they can handle the heat.
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Tailgate Science
Hosting a game-day party? Have a ball with these tips on beer-brewing, barbecuing, and more.
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