In terms of physical appearance, Capsicum Chinense has a broad range of variation. Some plants, such as the habanero, grow in the form of small, compact bushes that have small, white flowers with five petals. Other plants are more typical of the species, growing full and busy with upright, rigid stems and large green leaves that are thin and wrinkled with two to six flowers per knot.
Literally translated, “Baccatum” means berry-like. This is a great way to remember one of the best ways to differentiate this Capsicum variety from others, as the pods have a physical appearance that is—if not quite like that of a berry—certainly more berry-like than others.
As the most commonly cultivated and popular species of Capsicum, this particular variety can sometimes be difficult to separate from other cultivated species with a similar appearance.
That being said, Capsicum Annuum does have a distinctive growth configuration that can help you to distinguish this species from others. To differentiate Annuum from other varieties, pay keen attention to the configuration and appearance of its flowers and filaments (the threadlike stalks that support the anther).
Capsicum has been cultivated and consumed for thousands of years. In an incredible number of ethnic dishes around the world, peppers are an essential ingredient for truly authentic regional flavors as well as adding heat to just about any type of food imaginable.
But what’s the difference between a pepper and a chili pepper? Is a chilli something other than a chile and thus also different from a chili? Spelling aside, Capsicum by any other name is still just that; Capsicum.
The beauty of this spicy maple syrup recipe is its simplicity. All it takes is a little cayenne pepper powder and you have a rich and spicy topping that’s as perfect on corn waffles as it is as a pork loin glaze. Try it, too, with fruit or berry toppings on pancakes. The sweet and spicy pairing is extra special.
Some opt for a few dashes of hot sauce to breathe fire into a syrup, but we prefer the earthy heat of cayenne. It combines well and there’s no chance of a vinegar tang due to an overly strong pour.
You could simply create a refreshing cucumber martini, but why on earth stop there if you’re a spicy food fan? Add in a layer of heat by muddling fresh jalapeño pepper with the cucumber. It adds a surprising spice to this refreshing cocktail that you and your guests no doubt will enjoy.
If you’re an “all-in” spice kind of person, you could also opt for serrano pepper here. Serranos have a comparable bright, fresh flavor as the jalapeño, but they’re typically double the heat.
Delicious…from pasta sauce to dipping sauce. Spicy Cajun cream sauce is not only tasty, it’s also very versatile. It’s obviously a good choice for adding a touch of spice to basic pasta. But try it, too, topping some chicken cutlets or as a dipping sauce side for …
When you think jerk seasoning, you think Jamaican foods, jerk chicken, shrimp, and steaks. And it’s true – this homemade jerk seasoning is perfect with all of these things. But it’s a seasoning that’s actually a whole lot more versatile. Try sprinkling it on pizza and sandwiches for a little extra savory oomph. Mix it with mayonnaise to make a phenomenal dipping sauce. Sprinkle it on sweet potato fries or your morning scrambled eggs. You’ll find lots of uses in your kitchen. The heat source: cayenne pepper powder.
This is about as family friendly as a chili pepper-based soup can get. The mild simmering heat of poblano peppers adds just a hint of spice to this creamy corn chowder. It’s delicious and quite filling too. If you want a little more heat, try swapping out the poblanos for jalapeño peppers. Serve with crackers and shredded white cheddar (as an optional topping.)
Talk about two rich flavors that are at the opposite ends of the taste spectrum. Yet together, they are magic. On one side you have rich, sweet maple syrup, on the other smoky, spicy chipotle pepper. Paired in a barbecue sauce, you have a taste bud explosion for your next cookout. Try it on steak, pork, or chicken. It’s great, too, as a barbecue dipping sauce for your favorite fried foods. If there’s too much heat here, lessen the amount of chipotle used to two.
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