Numex Big Jim Pepper
About Numex Big Jim Pepper
The Numex Big Jim pepper, also known as the Big Jim chili, is a popular variety of New Mexican chile pepper that originated in New Mexico, United States. This hot pepper is relatively large, often reaching up to 12 inches in length. The pepper is elongated, with a slightly tapered end, and is usually green when it first grows, maturing to a bright red or orange color. One of the things that sets the Numex Big Jim pepper apart is that it has a relatively variable heat level, ranging from mild to quite hot.
The Numex Big Jim pepper is a member of the Capsicum annuum species, which includes a wide array of chili peppers. This species is native to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America, and has been cultivated for thousands of years. It is now grown all over the world, and is a staple ingredient in many different types of cuisine.
In terms of heat, the Numex Big Jim pepper ranges from around 500 to 2,500 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), making it a mid-range chili pepper. For comparison, the jalapeño pepper, which many people are familiar with, typically has a heat level around 2,500 to 8,000 SHU. So while the Numex Big Jim pepper can certainly be hot, it is unlikely to blow your mouth off with extreme spiciness.
One of the things that makes the Numex Big Jim pepper unique is its versatility in the kitchen. It can be used fresh or dried, and is great for roasting or grilling. Its mild to moderate heat level makes it a great addition to many different dishes, including stews, soups, and salsas. And because it is a New Mexican chili pepper, it is often used in traditional Southwestern and Mexican recipes.