Did you know that there are many types of chili peppers, each with different levels of spiciness?
So far, we may only be familiar with red, green, or bird’s eye chilies. In fact, chili peppers come in various shapes and colors depending on their origin.
For your information, chili peppers are not originally from Indonesia. You can find various types of chili peppers from different countries.
Their spice levels may vary, and some can even cause death if consumed excessively!
Bird’s Eye Chili
Who doesnโt know birdโs eye chili? Almost everyone in Indonesia is familiar with this type of chili.
Not only used as a cooking spice, the spiciness of birdโs eye chili also can be consumed with Indonesiaโs snack, such as fritters.
Bird’s eye chili comes in two types: red and green. Its spiciness level is usually higher compared to regular red or green chilies.
The less water content is one of the factors that makes birdโs eye chili spicier.
Bell Pepper
Surprisingly, bell peppers are also classified as a type of chili!
The Latin name for bell peppers is Capsicum annuum, the same as the Latin name for other types of chili like Capsicum frutescens for birdโs eye chili.
Bell peppers originate from South America, particularly Mexico. So, it’s no wonder that this chili is commonly found in Mexican dishes, such as salsa, chili con carne, and many more.
Jalapeno Pepper
Also from Mexico, we have the Jalapeno pepper, which is just as popular. Today, there are many snacks or chips featuring the distinctive flavor of Jalapeno.
The spice level of Jalapeno is 2,500โ8,000 Scoville heat units (SHU). It’s spicy enough to give a sharp bite on the tongue.
However, bird’s eye chili is still spicier than Jalapeno, with a Scoville level reaching up to 100,000 SHU.
Jalapenos are typically used as a condiment or ingredient in dishes like nachos, sauces, and salads.
Naga Viper Chili
So, whatโs the hottest chili pepper in the world? If youโre curious then you need to know about the Naga Viper.
This chili from England has an astonishing spice level, reaching 1,382,118 SHU. The burning sensation can be felt immediately once you eat this chili.
Naga Viper held the title of the world’s hottest chili in 2011. So, it’s no surprise that many people use this chili for spicy food challenges.
Bhut Jolokia ‘Ghost’ Pepper
The Bhut Jolokia chili, more commonly known as ghost pepper, also ranks among the hottest chilies in the world.
With a heat level reaching 1,001,304 SHU, Bhut Jolokia is indeed not as hot as Naga Viper, but this chili from India still delivers a torturous spiciness.
Despite its extreme heat, the Bhut Jolokia ‘Ghost’ Pepper has become a popular flavor choice and has even been adapted into instant foods like noodles.
Scotch Bonnet Chili
Even though its appearance is cute and interesting, the Scotch Bonnet chili packs quite a spicy punch, with a heat level reaching 350,000 SHU.
Scotch Bonnet is a type of chili from West Africa and the Caribbean islands. It comes in striking colors, ranging from green, yellow, orange, to bright red.
True to its origins, Scotch Bonnet is often used in Caribbean cuisine. Its spiciness adds a delightful kick to every dish.