Bird's Eye Chile

Store fresh chiles in a breathable bag or container in the refrigerator. Dried chiles can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for months.

Wear gloves when handling to avoid skin irritation. Avoid touching your eyes or face.

Start with a small amount and add more to taste, as these are very spicy.

Finely mince or slice them for maximum heat distribution.

Toast dried bird's eye chiles for a deeper, smokier flavor.

Garlic

Ginger

Lemongrass

Lime

Fish sauce

Coconut milk

Cilantro

Using too many at once without tasting.

Not removing seeds and membranes if you want to slightly reduce the heat (though much of the heat is in the flesh too).