At TASTE, we believe that everyone deserves to find their perfect spice level. Whether you're exploring new spicy recipes or sticking to familiar favourites, some prefer a gentle tingle. Others chase the dragon's breath.

As you stock your spice rack and plan your next warming meal, remember that every great cook has their own relationship with heat.  These spicy recipes prove there’s no one right approach. Some love the subtle complexity of mild spices that build slowly. Others dive straight into the deep end of the chilli pool. Both approaches are perfectly valid. It’s all about finding your sweet spot on the heat scale.

These recipes will help you discover new flavours, perfect your spice tolerance, and most importantly, keep you warm all winter long.

1. Home-made chilli oil

Starting things on a high note, this versatile condiment adds instant flavour to anything it touches. Drizzle it over noodles, eggs, pizza or roasted veggies for a rich, spicy depth that turns everyday meals into something special.

homemade chilli oil recipe

2. Spicy beef kebabs

Bold, juicy and full of flavour. These spicy beef kebabs strike the perfect balance between heat and smokiness, bringing big braai energy to the dinner table. No special occasion required!

spicy beef kebabs recipe 

3. Mussels and chorizo in chilli tomato sauce 

Smoky chorizo and tender mussels mingle in a rich, mildly spicy tomato sauce that feels both indulgent and effortless. Every bite delivers warmth, spice and that irresistible “just one more spoon” satisfaction.

mussels and chorizo in chili tomato sauce recipe

4. Rotisserie chicken and roast tomatoes in peri – peri sauce 

An easy classic with a fiery twist using Woolies' iconic rotisserie chicken. The juicy chicken and roasted tomatoes are coated in a zesty peri-peri sauce that adds brightness and depth to every bite — proof that simple can still be spectacular.

rotisserie chicken and roast tomatoes in peri – peri sauce recipe

5. Noxolo’s beef curry 

A rich, aromatic curry that wraps you in comfort. The deep, mellow spice makes it the perfect slow-style dish for chilly evenings and long, lazy lunches alike.

Noxolo’s beef curry recipe  

6. Chicken espetada with peri peri 

A dish made for sharing. Flavourful chicken skewers are packed with smoky paprika, tangy peri-peri and just enough heat to keep things interesting. Big flavour, simple ingredients, maximum impact.

chicken espetada with peri peri recipe

7.Chilli and ginger prawns 

Plump prawns with a lively mix of chilli, ginger and soy that’s equal parts sweet, savoury and spicy. It’s a light yet fiery dish that feels fresh, fast and full of personality.

chilli and ginger prawns recipe

8. Asian style pork ribs with butternut crisps

Sticky, spicy and perfectly balanced. The ribs are rich and bold, while the crisp butternut brings a hint of sweetness and texture. It’s comfort food with an adventurous streak.

Asian style pork ribs with butternut crisps recipe

9. Pomegranate molasses chicken with bulgur wheat salad

Bright, tangy and full of contrast. The tender, spiced chicken pairs beautifully with nutty bulgur, fresh herbs and bursts of pomegranate — a refreshing way to enjoy spice without the heaviness.

pomegranate molasses chicken with bulgur wheat salad recipe

Craving more heat? Explore our full range of chilli recipes here.

This content was created with AI assistance, however it was fact-checked, edited and ideated by actual human beings at TASTE.