Are red chillies hotter than green chillies?

Red and green chillies are different stages of maturity of the same plant, Capsicum annuum. Green chillies are harvested when they are still unripe, while red chillies are allowed to ripen fully.

The level of spiciness in chillies is determined by the concentration of capsaicin, a chemical compound that activates the pain receptors in the mouth. The capsaicin content can vary depending on the type of chilli, growing conditions, and maturity level.

In general, red chillies are considered hotter than green chillies because they have a higher concentration of capsaicin. As the chillies ripen, the capsaicin content increases, making them spicier. However, there are exceptions to this rule, as some green chillies can be hotter than certain red chillies.