Hot Portugal

Hot Portugal Pepper

The Hot Portugal pepper is a cayenne-type chili that stands out for its moderate to high heat and versatility in culinary uses. Belonging to the Solanaceae or nightshade family, these elongated peppers have medium-thick walls and typically reach a length of 5 to 8 inches. They are one of the earliest ripening varieties, which makes them an excellent choice for gardeners looking to harvest their chilies sooner. In terms of heat, the Hot Portugal pepper can vary wildly.  Heat can range from 5,000 to 35,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), placing it between the heat levels of a jalapeño and a cayenne pepper​​​​​​.

The pepper looks very similar to Jimmy Nardello – so – be careful!

Uses

In the kitchen, Hot Portugal peppers are incredibly useful, like many cayennes. They are commonly used in soups, chilis, and stews, adding extra heat and depth of flavor. They are also perfect for stir-frying with vegetables, roasting, seasoning, or being stuffed with grains, meats, and cheeses to create a delicious main course. Additionally, when dried, these peppers can be crushed into red chili flakes, offering a more flavorful kick to various dishes​​.