The chilli guide
Hunan food is genuinely spicy — more than Sichuan's numb-spice, a direct heat. Start with one chilli level below what you think you need. Useful sentences are in the phrase section on the main page. Street vendors will adjust the heat if you ask: 不要辣 (no chilli), 微辣 (a little). Drink tea, not water, with the meal — it clears the palate faster. This is general experience, not a guarantee; your tolerance is yours.
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