Red Pepper Flakes (Crushed)

On many occasions the ingredient list in a recipe call for “red pepper flakes” well darn, ya’ can’t find ‘em. There’s crushed red pepper, powdered cyan pepper etc., but no flakes! Well here’s what to do: Go to a Chinese or Asian grocery store or market and buy a bag of died red peppers. They are very inexpensive less then a dollar, and they fill the bill.

When called for, take one or more of the peppers and cut each carefully into about three pieces across the grain. Them take the pieces and shake out the seeds. Now you have the pepper - just hold it in your fingers and crush it. Voila red pepper flakes.

I know there are those who swear by the “whole” thing, but I just don’t like the texture of the seeds in an otherwise delicate dish.
When you’re done with them, seal the package and put it in the freezer for the next time. Why you might ask? Well in the really hot weather, you could be surprised with an infestation in the package. An ounce of prevention goes a long way.