Were you a little heavy-handed with the hot sauce?

Heres what to do.

All of your hard work (and precious ingredients) may not have to go to waste.

Shrimp and Chicken Gumbo

Credit: Photo: Christopher Testani

Here are the best ways to save a dish that’s too spicy.

For soups and stews, raw and starchy vegetables like potatoes or carrots work well.

Dairy products interfere with some spices reaching the taste receptors in our bodies, decreasing the spicy sensation.

Coconut milk works in the same way.

The high-fat content in the nuts counteracts spices, helping to lessen the severity.

It also can change the texture and flavor profiles of dishes, which might be something you enjoy.

It’s all about keeping the proportions in check.