piquancy

Capsaicin (from Wikipedia)
The chemical compound capsaicin (8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide) is the active component of chili peppers, which are plants belonging to the genus Capsicum. It is an irritant for mammals including humans and produces a sensation of burning in the mouth. Capsaicin and several related compounds are called capsaicinoids and are produced as a secondary metabolite by [...]

harissa 1

North african chili sauce.
Combine 1.5 tablespoons ground cayenne, 1/4 cup ground cumin and 1/2 cup olive oil in a mortar and pestle. I also add as much as 2 teaspoons of ground caraway when I have it. Grind the ingredients into a paste, to which you may add a little salt, to taste.
Since this recipe [...]