Q: Dear Dave,What are Italian sport peppers? Can banana peppers be substituted?–Alison Leszcz A: Alison:They are small peppers that are usually pickled. They are popular in the Midwest. Yes, banana peppers can be substituted.–Dave
Stop the Burn on Eyes and Face
Q: Dear Dave,How do I stop the burn if I touch my face and eyes after handling and/or eating very hot peppers?–Alexis A: Hello Alexis:Rubbing your hands with vegetable oil is said to work, and then scrub with strong detergent. The only thing to do about the eyes is flush them with water.–Dave
Looking for Coconut Milk Co-Packer
Q: Hi Dave,I am looking to can coconut milk. The ingredients are very simple—it has coconut extract, water, and a preservative—and I can provide the fresh brown coconuts. Is there a company who can co-pack this product for me, preferably in Florida? Thank you. A: Hello Wwung:I would recommend Charlie Schandelmayer of Sauce Crafters, near West Palm Beach. Call him …
Preserving Pepper Paste in Tanzania
Q: Hi Dave,My recipe for a pepper paste contains scotch bonnet, ginger, garlic, salt and vinegar. I want to bottle it for sale here in Tanzania. To preserve it, could I hot water bathe it or do I need to pressure-cook it to prolong shelf life?Thanks and good luck, Judy McIntosh A: Hello Judy:Since vinegar is a preservative, a boiling …
Homemade Heat Test
Q: Dear Dave,I am currently doing a science fair project on the effects of hot sauce on the tongue. I am trying to make my own "homemade" test, similar to the methods used by Wilbur Scoville, to use on subjects. I was wondering if you ("The Pope of Peppers") could offer some suggestions on proper yet simple methods of testing …