Scotch Bonnet
Description
The scotch bonnet is a variety of chili pepper named for its resemblance to a tam o' shanter hat. It is one of the hottest peppers used in cooking, with a heat rating of 100,000 to 350,000 Scoville units. The pepper is small, irregularly shaped, and varies in color from green to yellow to red. Scotch bonnets are not only prized for their heat, but also for their fruity, tropical flavor, which distinguishes them from other hot peppers.
Common uses
Scotch bonnet peppers are widely used to add spice and depth to dishes, featuring prominently in Caribbean, West African, and Creole cuisines. They are often used in hot sauces, marinades, and condiments or incorporated into stews, soups, and rice dishes to impart a fiery kick.
Nutritional value
Calories
A typical scotch bonnet pepper weighing about 10 grams has approximately 3 calories (12.55 kJ).
Protein
Scotch bonnet provides about 0.2 grams of protein per 10 grams of fresh pepper.
Fat
This hot pepper contains a negligible amount of fat, with less than 0.1 grams per 10 grams.
Carbohydrates
There are roughly 0.6 grams of carbohydrates in a 10-gram scotch bonnet pepper.
Vitamins
Scotch bonnets are rich in vitamins C and A. A 10-gram pepper can provide about 6% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C and 2% of vitamin A based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Minerals
These peppers contain trace amounts of minerals such as potassium and magnesium.
Health benefits
Scotch bonnet peppers are associated with various health benefits, including boosting metabolism, aiding in digestion, and potentially reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases due to their antioxidant properties.
Potential risks
Due to their extreme heat, scotch bonnet peppers should be consumed with caution. Overconsumption can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, and the peppers should be handled with care to avoid skin and eye irritation.
Common recipes
Scotch bonnets are often used in Caribbean jerk seasoning, West African pepper soups, hot sauces, and spicy salsas.
Cooking methods
They can be used fresh, dried, or powdered. When cooking, they are typically finely chopped or blended into a paste. It is important to wear gloves when handling to prevent skin irritation.
Pairing with other ingredients
These peppers pair well with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple, meats such as pork and chicken, and complement coconut milk-based dishes.
Summary
Scotch bonnet peppers are a fiery and flavorful ingredient that can transform dishes with their unique combination of heat and tropical fruitiness. Despite their intense spiciness, their nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking make them a beloved chili pepper in various cuisines worldwide.