What is a scotch bonnet pepper

Scotch bonnet (also known as Bonney peppers, or Caribbean red peppers) is a variety of chili pepper named for its resemblance to a tam o’ shanter hat. It is ubiquitous in West Africa as well as the Caribbean. Like the closely related habanero, Scotch bonnets have a heat rating of 100,000–350,000 Scoville units.

What is a Scotch bonnet pepper similar to?

Easiest to find: Jalapeño or serrano peppers

Nearly every grocer carries jalapeños, and serrano peppers are becoming more popular as well. As they are easy to find, both can serve as scotch bonnet substitutes in a pinch, but you’ll be giving up a lot in both flavor and heat.

What is hotter Scotch bonnet or habanero?

It is a function of the main phytochemical in peppers that give them their heat, called capsaicin. The habanero chili peppers are 260,000 SHU, whereas the Scotch bonnet pepper is about 445,000 SHU.

What’s the difference between habanero and Scotch bonnet peppers?

These chilis have different spice levels, but their taste is also different. Habaneros are slightly sweet and fruity and are a tad bitter. Scotch Bonnets are also sweet and fruity but are not bitter. Those who are unfamiliar with chili spice levels and flavors will barely notice the difference.

Is Scotch bonnet the hottest pepper?

Scotch Bonnets pack quite a bit of heat. While not considered one of the hottest peppers in the world, it still has a respectable level of heat. They range from 100,000 to 350,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU) which is anywhere from 12 to 140 times hotter than a jalapeno pepper.

Can you use cayenne pepper instead of scotch bonnet?

However, cayenne pepper makes a great substitute for Scotch Bonnet peppers, as it carries similar levels of heat and flavors. Cayenne peppers are actually a type of chili pepper, sold as dried chilies or powder.