Scotch bonnet pepper

Heat	Very hot
Scoville scale	100,000 – 350,000 SHU

The Scotch bonnet pepper is a variety of chili pepper similar to and often confused with the Habanero pepper. Named for its resemblance to a tam o' shanter, a traditional Scottish hat, the Scotch bonnet is a staple in Caribbean cuisine. It is particularly prevalent in dishes from Jamaica, Haiti, and the Cayman Islands.

Description

The Scotch bonnet pepper is a cultivar of the Capsicum chinense species, which is known for producing some of the hottest peppers. It is renowned for its heat, with a Scoville rating of 100,000 to 350,000 units. This pepper is small, round, and typically measures 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter and 1 to 2 inches in length. Its color matures from green to yellow to scarlet red as it ripens, though there are varieties that turn orange or chocolate brown.

Culinary Uses

Scotch bonnet peppers are integral to Caribbean dishes, imparting a fiery heat and a distinctive fruity flavor. They are key ingredients in jerk seasoning, pepper sauces, and marinades. The peppers are also used to flavor meats, fish, and stews. Despite their heat, Scotch bonnets are also noted for their sweetness, which makes them a popular choice for hot sauces and other spicy condiments.

Cultural Significance

In Caribbean culture, the Scotch bonnet pepper is more than just a food ingredient; it is a part of the region's identity and culinary heritage. In Jamaica, for example, it is essential in the national dish, ackee and saltfish, and is used in the preparation of many other local dishes.

Growing

Scotch bonnet peppers thrive in hot, humid climates similar to those of the Caribbean islands. They require full sun and well-drained soil, and they are typically harvested in the late summer or early fall. Gardeners and farmers in other regions must replicate tropical conditions as closely as possible to successfully grow Scotch bonnet peppers.

Health Benefits

Like other chili peppers, Scotch bonnets are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. They also contain capsaicin, which has been shown to have pain-relieving properties and may help boost metabolism.

See Also

• Habanero pepper
• Jerk spice
• Caribbean cuisine