What is a scotch bonnet?

Scotch bonnet peppers are small, round, fiery hot chili peppers that are a part of the Capsicum chinense species of chili peppers. They originate from the Caribbean islands and South America and are widely used in various Caribbean, South American, African, and Southeast Asian cuisines.

Here's some information about scotch bonnet peppers:

1. Appearance: Scotch bonnets are typically 1 to 2 inches long, with a bright orange or red color when fully ripe. They have a wrinkled, bumpy surface, which gives them a distinctive appearance.

2. Heat Level: Scotch bonnets are known for their extreme spiciness and are considered one of the hottest varieties of chili peppers. They rank between 100,000 and 350,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU) on the Scoville scale, where higher SHU values indicate more heat.

3. Flavor: Despite their intense heat, scotch bonnets also possess a unique, fruity, and smoky flavor that adds a distinct taste to dishes.

4. Culinary Uses: Scotch bonnets are commonly used in a variety of cuisines to bring a fiery element. They are often incorporated into sauces, marinades, stews, curries, and soups. Due to their intense spiciness, they are typically used sparingly to add heat without overwhelming the flavor of the dish.

5. Medicinal Properties: While caution is advised due to their spiciness, scotch bonnets have been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes. They contain capsaicin, the chemical responsible for their heat, which has been associated with potential health benefits such as pain relief, lowering blood pressure, and aiding in digestion.

6. Origin and Distribution: Scotch bonnets are believed to have originated in the Caribbean islands and have become common ingredients in numerous cuisines throughout the Caribbean and South America. They have also spread to other parts of the world and gained popularity as an ingredient in fiery and spicy dishes.

When handling scotch bonnet peppers, it's important to exercise caution due to their high heat level. Gloves are often recommended to protect hands from the burning sensation of capsaicin. If coming into contact with scotch bonnets, avoid touching the face, especially the eyes, to prevent irritation from the peppers' capsaicin content.