🌶️ Different Types of Chillies and the Heat They Bring

Chillies are a staple in kitchens across the world, beloved not only for the heat they bring but also for their unique flavours and versatility. From mild bell peppers to the fiery Carolina Reaper, understanding the different types of chillies and their heat levels can help you elevate your cooking and confidently experiment with spice.

🔬 The Scoville Scale: Measuring the Heat

Chilli heat is measured using the Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) scale. This measures the amount of capsaicin – the compound responsible for the burn. The higher the SHU, the hotter the chilli.

• Bell Pepper – 0 SHU (no heat)
• Jalapeño – 2,500–8,000 SHU
• Habanero – 100,000–350,000 SHU
• Carolina Reaper – 1,400,000–2,200,000 SHU

🌱 Mild Chillies (0–2,500 SHU)

• Bell Pepper (Capsicum): Sweet and crunchy – perfect for salads and stir-fries.
• Poblano: Earthy and mild – great roasted or stuffed.
• Anaheim: Tangy and mild – used in sauces and baked dishes.

🌶️ Medium Chillies (2,500–30,000 SHU)

• Jalapeño: Crisp and grassy – ideal for nachos or pickling.
• Serrano: Brighter, sharper heat – great for fresh salsas.
• Cayenne: Smoky and hot – often used in powder form.

🔥 Hot Chillies (30,000–100,000 SHU)

• Bird’s Eye (Thai Chilli): Tiny but fiery – essential in Southeast Asian dishes.
• Tabasco: Juicy and tangy – used in sauces and marinades.
• Chiltepin: Wild and spicy – crushed and sprinkled over food.

🔥🔥 Very Hot Chillies (100,000–350,000 SHU)

• Habanero: Fruity and hot – used in tropical hot sauces.
• Scotch Bonnet: Sweet and floral – popular in Caribbean cuisine.
• Datil: Hot and sweet – found in Florida-style sauces.

🔥🔥🔥 Extremely Hot Chillies (350,000+ SHU)

• Ghost Pepper (Bhut Jolokia): Smoky and deadly – used in extreme hot sauces.
• 7 Pot Douglah: Chocolate-coloured and fiery – used in spice blends.
• Carolina Reaper: Fruity and brutal – the hottest chilli (currently).

🧪 Honourable Mention: Pepper X

SHU: Over 3,000,000 – Developed by the creator of the Carolina Reaper, Pepper X is used only in ultra-hot sauces and chilli-eating contests. Handle with extreme care!

🍽️ Tips for Cooking with Chillies

• To reduce heat: Remove seeds/ribs or add yoghurt, coconut milk, or sweetness.
• To boost heat: Use more finely chopped chillies or dried powders.
• Handle safely: Wear gloves and avoid touching your face!

🥗 How to Use Different Chillies

🧡 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re into mild flavours or extreme heat, there’s a chilli out there to match your taste and cooking style. Explore different types, experiment with new recipes, and find your heat sweet spot. Cooking with chillies isn’t just about fire – it’s about flavour, culture, and creativity!