Corno Di Toro Rosso

Corno Di Toro Rosso

This chili’s name translates to “horn of the bull,” is an Italian sweet pepper renowned for its unique, elongated shape that resembles a bull’s horn. This variety is recognized for its sweet and fruity flavor and matures into a vibrant red, yellow, or orange color​​​​.

Appearance and Size

These peppers are known for their impressive size, typically averaging 6-8 inches in length and about 2 ½ inches in width, and weighing around 5 ounces. The fruits are tapered, with a curved, horn-like shape, and they grow on upright, medium-sized plants​​.  The fruit reminds us of the cowhorn – which is a hotter and thinner variety, more in line with a cayenne.  At times the names are used interchangeably but this is an incorrect assumption.

Culinary Uses

Corno di Toro Rosso peppers are celebrated for their sweet taste and thick walls, which make them ideal for roasting and stuffing. The meaty texture of these peppers stands up well to grilling and high temperatures, making them versatile in various recipes. They are a staple in dishes like stuffed peppers and are often included in the Cajun Holy Trinity of onions, celery, and peppers​​.

Growing

These peppers thrive best in warm daytime temperatures (70 to 80˚ F) and cooler nights (55 to 65˚ F), with high humidity. They are suitable for both outdoor and indoor growing and mature within 75 to 85 days. While they require full sun, in extremely hot climates, light shade can be beneficial​​​​.

It’s important to note that seeds of the Corno di Toro Rosso require a warm area for successful germination. This is crucial for ensuring a healthy start for the plants and a bountiful harvest. The plants yield well and are considered among the best peppers to grow, particularly for their delightful taste​​​​.

Heat

Low to no heat, 500 SHU estimated, though you may come across some much less.

In short, the Corno di Toro Rosso is an Italian heirloom pepper known for its sweet flavor and distinctive shape. Its thick walls and large size make it ideal for a variety of cooking methods. With proper care and warm germination conditions, this pepper can be a rewarding addition to any garden or kitchen.