The terms are different, but is there any real cause of comparison for red pepper flakes vs chili flakes? While theoretical differences can be drawn (and often are), practically, there is no real difference between red pepper flakes, chili flakes, and crushed red pepper – they’re all the same thing!
Essentially, these are made by crushing and/or grinding dried red peppers. There can be variations though, where brands or traditional regional cuisine can dictate how hot or spicy a pack of red chili flakes can be.
Let’s get to know these spicy goodies better!
Table of Contents
About Red Pepper Flakes And Chili Flakes
How Red Pepper Flakes Are Made
The process of making red pepper flakes has been around for centuries and the modern idea is still pretty much the same.
First off, the red peppers are dried. Conventionally, they’re dried in the sun, however, modern processes may also include the use of dehydrators and ovens for quicker drying.
Once the peppers are completely dry, the stems are removed. After this, it’s time to crush the peppers. Again, this can be accomplished in the classic way using mortar and pestle or a rolling pin. If you choose to use modern means, a suitable blender or food processor can handle the job too.
Seeds are typically kept inside the chili peppers, contributing their heat and spiciness.
So, Why Are These The Same?
As I discussed already, red pepper flakes, red chili flakes, and crushed red pepper all mean the same thing.
So, why is this so? Well, if you take a closer look, all these terms are pretty much synonymous. Red pepper and red chili represent the same thing. Crushed red pepper is a similarly descriptive term to suggest that the ingredients are red peppers that have been crushed (into flakes).
In some ways, the terminology can depend on regional names. While the USA generally calls the ingredients red peppers, other countries prefer red chilies. Some places call them red chili peppers.
Similarly, the term ‘crushed red peppers’ is more popular in the USA, though chili flakes and red pepper flakes are also used in many places.
Partially, this also becomes a reason for people wondering if there is a difference. As an example, one might see bottles of crushed red pepper, red pepper flakes, and chili flakes sitting alongside each other on a store shelf. It’s only natural to wonder if these products labeled differently are the same!
Is There A Difference In Terms Of Heat Or Spiciness?
Since these products are the same, the heat and spiciness in red pepper flakes and chili flakes is the same.
Apparently, the only true difference is for the people in the UK. In the UK, red pepper flakes usually means bell pepper flakes. Since bell peppers are quite low on heat and spiciness, the red pepper flakes provide a low to minimal heat, while also adding color, sweetness, mild pungency, and a bit of earthy flavor to the recipe. Chili flakes, however, are pretty much the same in the UK as anywhere else.
The Bottom Line
So, all things considered, while the different terms might suggest a difference, there is no practical difference between red chili flakes and red pepper flakes. These are the same thing, even if sold under different names.
While some people do suggest differences stemming from heat, pepper origin, or seed content – it’s not really valid. Consumers, manufacturers/vendors, and regulators don’t make the same distinction. As such, there is little point to finding differences where there are none.