Types of Hot Peppers

There are numerous types of hot peppers around the world with varying degrees of heat. The degree of a hot pepper's heat is measured on a chart called the Scoville scale. Capsaicin, which causes the heat in a hot pepper, is found in the ribs of the pepper.

Cascabell Pepper

Cascabell Pepper

This hot pepper is only from Mexico. It features a very thin skin and is usually dried before use. It has a medium heat rating.

Habanera

Habanera Peppers

The habanera is a very popular pepper found in most grocery stores. This hot pepper is one of the hottest on the Scoville scale.

Chipotle

Chipotle Peppers

Chipotle peppers are any type of hot pepper that has been smoked. They are also often dried. They are used in cooking, sauces, and on sandwiches and pizzas. Their heat varies from medium to hot.

Cherry

Cherry Hot Peppers

A hot cherry pepper is a mild-heat type of hot pepper. The name comes from its small round shape and the way it turns from green to red as it grows.

Cayenne

Cayenne Peppers

The red Cayenne pepper is an extremely high-heat hot pepper. It is most often ground up and sold as a cooking spice, Cayenne pepper, for cooking.

Mirasol

Mirasol Peppers

The Mirasol pepper is the chameleon of hot peppers. Its size varies from small to large and the heat measures from mild to moderate. The skin varies from smooth to wrinkled. It is a thin red pepper that has a unique fruitlike flavor.

Resources

• Scoville Heat Chart
• Visual Guide to Peppers