Nuclear-hot red chili peppers add a decisive kick to what could be an otherwise boring meal. However it’s exactly the fact that they are so damn hot that can make them too hot to handle. Literally. Releasing endorphins is great and all, but it doesn’t count if they’re triggered via hot pepper in the eye. The same volatile oil that can make eating hot pepper so enjoyable, is the same one that can stick to the fingers and end up in the most unwelcome of places.
Helping to keep capsaicin at bay is the Alessi Piccantino Chilli Cruncher designed by Jim Hannon-Tan. When filled, the silicone chili pepper acts as a barrier, effectively allowing one to crush the small little devils, without the worry of any unfortunate lingering after-effects. Complete with two differently-sized shaker holes, and a stainless-steel cap to top, the little pepper protector helps keep pepperheads safe to enjoy the benefits of heat where it belongs: in the food. At $26, it could be a small price to pay.
