Watch Chemistry Explain Why You Love Sriracha

Why is Sriracha one of the world's most cultishly beloved condiments? This video by YouTube channel Reactions breaks down the chemical components behind the sauce's familiar heat: Namely, capsaicinoid compounds inside the chilis elicit a "spicy hot" sensation similar to that of burning tissue, which releases endorphins in the brain to cut the pain (and create a pleasure response). The video also explains the scientific methods for measuring "spice" and compares Sriracha's heat component to that of other hot sauces. Go, watch:

Video: The Chemistry of Sriracha: Hot Sauce Science

· The Chemistry of Sriracha: Hot Sauce Science [YouTube via The Awl]
· All Sriracha Coverage on Eater [-E-]