If you’re a fan of cajun food, buffalo wings, jerk chicken, and jambalaya, odds are you enjoy the rich flavor of spices. However, as much as you might like these comforting dishes from your favorite restaurant, you probably don’t always appreciate the flushed face or tongue-burning sensation that may come with them. Here are a few ways you can manage the heat. 

4 Tips for Spicy Food Enthusiasts

1. Eat Mindfully

When your food is set in front of you, it’s tempting to dig in right away. But, by consuming spicy food quickly, you may not notice how hot it is until you experience unwanted reactions.

To avoid this issue, savor your restaurant meal. Take a few bites and allow the taste to settle on your tongue. Pause to have a quick chat with your tablemates or take a sip of water to suss out the spice levels. 

2. Build Your Tolerance Over Time

If you grew up in a household where peppers were rarely used in cooking, you’ll have a lower tolerance to spicy dishes. The good news is that you can work your way up. Slowly incorporate more spice into your daily meals, such as by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

3. Pick the Right Beverage

Drinking an ice-cold beverage can help numb your tongue and reduce burning sensations related to eating pepper. During particularly bold meals, order a glass of milk as dairy can also help reduce the reaction. 

4. Don’t Forget the Starch

Your tastebuds and the receptors in your mouth can better tolerate and enjoy spicy food when there are other textures to pull your focus. With this in mind, order starchy side dishes like crackers, bread, french fries, or rice. These starchy items will distract your mouth receptors and help absorb some of the spice before it enters your system. 

If you’re looking for a cajun food restaurant that offers authentic cuisine with plenty of kick, Buzzard Billy's is the perfect spot for your next meal. Located in the Historic Haymarket section of downtown Lincoln, NE, this inviting restaurant and bar is known for tasty food, refreshing drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. For more information about their COVID-19 practices, call today at (402) 475-8822. Visit their website to review their menu.