Carolina Reaper Pepper
About Carolina Reaper Pepper
The Carolina Reaper, scientifically known as Capsicum chinense, is a fearsomely hot chili pepper that holds the title for being the world's hottest pepper according to the Guinness World Records. It was meticulously bred by Ed Currie of PuckerButt Pepper Company in Fort Mill, South Carolina, United States. The name "Carolina Reaper" is a nod to its fiery heat and originates from its birthplace in the Carolinas.
The Carolina Reaper is a visually striking pepper with a unique appearance. It typically measures about 1 to 2 inches in width and 2 to 3 inches in length. The pepper has a distinctively gnarled and bumpy texture, resembling a small, red, and wrinkled pod with a pointed tail-like appendage. Its vibrant red color adds to its visual appeal.
What truly sets the Carolina Reaper apart is its intense heat. With a Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating that can reach up to a mind-boggling 2.2 million, it surpasses the heat level of other well-known peppers such as the ghost pepper and habanero. The heat of the Carolina Reaper is so potent that it can induce intense physical reactions, including sweating, tears, and numbing sensations.
Beyond its scorching heat, the Carolina Reaper offers a unique flavor profile. It has a fruity and slightly sweet taste that provides a counterbalance to its fiery nature. Despite its extreme heat, some people enjoy the flavor complexities and incorporate the Carolina Reaper into various dishes, such as hot sauces, salsas, and spicy marinades.
The popularity of the Carolina Reaper has soared among chili pepper enthusiasts seeking the ultimate spicy experience. Its reputation as the reigning champion of heat has made it a sought-after ingredient for those who crave extreme spiciness.