That's a great article...  I'm also trying to find a Chicken that'll cover itself in curry powder and jump into that maillard pan and cook itself before I get home from work!

Chewy,  am I on the right track here in your opinion?

Just got say that looks bloody good fried....   I'm starving. ! 

Hi Phil.  Thank you for the information re mixing raw ground chillies with oil to avoid the consequences.  I shall certainly use this method when it's easier than cooking it depending on the dish and/or recipe.

I prefer raw crushed Kashmiri chilli flakes which can cause considerable pain if I don't cook them first. Would you happen to know if mixing the flakes in oil works in the same way?  I'm often out on the road working all day so getting to a lav with a shower etc is almost impossible.  The consequences are beyond anal afterburn, it's more like arse on fire !

Do you still cook and like this type of base?  Or have you something better you prefer?