Which chilies should be used in US for making Indian foods?

In India, hot chili peppers are used in two forms: Fresh Green Chili peppers called 'Hari Mirch', and Ground Red Chili peppers 'Lal Mirchi'

These peppers are not readily available in United States. We can substitute as follows

- Serrano or Jalapeno can be substituted for Hari Mirch. Serrano makes a better substitute than the Jalapenos. The skin texture and flavor of Serrano is almost undistinguishable from Hari Mirch after they have been chopped

- Ground Cayenne pepper is the closest substitute for Lal Mirchi. The flavor and heat for both varieties is nearly same. Lal Mirchi has a richer color.

To make very hot curries similar to British Phall or British Tindaloo, red Savina Habanera will do an excellent job

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