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Spicy foods can be downright delicious, but the burning sensation that follows might prove to be overbearing. Latin cuisine is known for its mouthwatering meals with a kick, so if you’re dining in at a Spanish restaurant, it helps to be prepared. Try these tips and remedies to cool down after a fiery bite.

How to Cool Down After Eating Hot Food

1. Avoid Water

When your mouth is on fire, your first instincts are probably to reach for a glass of water. Resist the temptation, and try something else. The element primarily causing that heat is an oil called capsaicin, and because water and oil do not mix, it won’t do anything to soothe your pain. In fact, it will likely just spread the capsaicin throughout your mouth.

2. Eat Some Starch

You may have noticed that bread soaks up oils nicely, which makes it the perfect candidate for heat relief. Likewise, starchy foods like rice, potatoes, and tortillas protect your mouth from capsaicin. Latin cuisine bears many options, so pick a dish that’ll absorb the spice as you eat it.

3. Try Acidic Ingredients

Capsaicin is an alkaline oil, Latin cuisinemeaning an acidic food can help neutralize its effects. Pluck a few tomatoes from your salad, request some lemons or limes to chew on, or sip a glass of your favorite wine. All of these ingredients, readily available in Latin cuisine, will balance out the pH levels in your mouth and effectively reduce the spiciness.

4. Go for the Sugar

If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in luck. Sugar and honey absorb oils like capsaicin, so they’ll help calm the burn. Ask your waiter for some honey or sugar, and add it to taste. Just remember that too much will drastically change the flavors of Latin cuisine, so put in a dash at a time and test it before adding more. Alternatively, you can pour it directly onto your burning tongue.

5. Drink Milk

The most efficient remedy for too-spicy food is undoubtedly dairy. Dairy products like milk, butter, sour cream, cheese, and yogurt all contain casein. This protein binds with capsaicin and breaks it up, providing instant relief. Its repelling effects also prevent capsaicin from reaching the pain receptors of your mouth. A glass of milk is your best bet for fighting off the heat.

 

For a unique dining experience with authentic Latin taste, eat at Mamajuana Café Paterson of Passaic County, NJ. This elegant yet upbeat restaurant features the best of Latin cuisine, from empanadas to the adobo pork chop. Each dish relies on a complex combination of tried-and-true spices and top quality ingredients for unbeatable flavors. View their menu online, or call (973) 925-5172 for more information.

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