When Working with Dried Chiles • When handling a spicy chile’s seeds or veins, don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth, or you’ll be the victim of some serious stinging pain. (Even washing your hands in hot water can be slightly painful, if you’re seeding a massive quantity of dried chiles.) Some cooks prefer to use gloves when handling dried chiles; I never have, but sometimes, with a particularly spicy chile, I’ll dislodge the seeds with a small spoon.