Chilies are beloved around the world and used heavily in a variety of cuisines, but that doesn’t mean everyone appreciates spicy food. Fortunately, with a little practice and a few simple tricks, you could build up your tolerance. Here are a few suggestions for eating spicy foods at the restaurants you love. 

How to Build Your Tolerance for Spicy Cuisines

1. Start Slowly

Chilies are spicy because of an ingredient called capsaicin, which is a natural, oil-like compound present in the ribs, seeds, and flesh of peppers. As you eat foods containing capsaicin, it builds on your tongue and in your body, increasing the effects of the peppers. Thus, when you have spicy foods, eat slowly to give your body a chance to adjust to the spice. 

2. Order Starchy Foods

Starches, such as bread, rice, and pasta, create a barrier between your tongue and the capsaicin, helping you to tolerate the heat of spicy foods. If you are at a restaurant and know you will be ordering spicy items, get a side of rice or bread along with the dish. 

3. Focus on Flavor 

Spice adds another dimension of taste to foods, so savor it to get your mind off of the sensations of the heat. Pay attention to the flavor notes present in the food, such as the tang of freshly squeezed lemon or the tartness of sour kimchi or ginger. Also, eat mindfully by chewing thoroughly and focusing on how you feel while eating. This will help you to enjoy the spiciness more and appreciate the flavors it adds. 

When you want delicious spicy foods, head to New Shilawon Korean Restaurant 뉴신라원 in Honolulu, HI. Since their inception in 1994, this beloved restaurant has been committed to offering fresh, authentic Korean dishes to Oahu residents and tourists. With more than 40 available dishes, you can enjoy all-you-can-eat yakiniku, shabu-shabu, and Korean BBQ. Explore their menu online, or call (808) 944-8700 to speak to a team member.