I have seen that hypothesis in two other comments as well, but I seriously doubt the focus on meat. I have read before that spicy food in general is slower to

I have seen that hypothesis in two other comments as well, but I seriously doubt the focus on meat. I have read before that spicy food in general is slower to spoil, because of the antibacterial properties of many spices. Especially in warm and humid climates, there is much to be said for food that you can still eat the day after cooking, without getting stomach cramps. No matter if it contains meat or not.