The Bishop’s Crown, also known as the Christmas Bell pepper or the Bishop’s Hat pepper, is a unique and visually striking chili pepper variety.
Bishop’s Crown (Capsicum Baccatum)
- Appearance: The Bishop’s Crown pepper has a distinctive shape resembling a crown of a bishop or a bell with multiple lobes. It has a broad base that tapers to a point at the top, creating a bell-like appearance. The pepper’s skin is smooth and glossy, and it typically ranges in color from bright green to vibrant red when fully ripe.
- Size: Bishop’s Crown peppers vary in size, but they are generally medium-sized compared to other chili pepper varieties. They typically measure around 2 to 3 inches in length and width, although larger specimens can occasionally be found.
- Flavor Profile: Bishop’s Crown peppers offer a unique flavor profile that combines sweetness with a mild to moderate level of heat. The peppers have a fruity and slightly tangy taste, reminiscent of bell peppers, with a subtle spicy kick. This flavor profile makes them versatile for use in a variety of culinary applications.
- Heat Level: While Bishop’s Crown peppers are considered moderately spicy, they are milder than some of the more intense chili pepper varieties like habaneros or ghost peppers. Their Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating typically ranges from 5,000 to 30,000 SHU, placing them in the lower to mid-range of heat on the Scoville scale.
- Culinary Uses: Bishop’s Crown peppers are prized for their unique appearance and flavor, making them popular in both culinary and ornamental applications. They can be used fresh in salads, salsas, and relishes, or cooked in dishes such as stir-fries, soups, and stuffed peppers. Their distinct shape and vibrant color also make them an attractive choice for garnishing and decorating dishes.
- Growing Habits: Bishop’s Crown pepper plants are relatively easy to grow and are well-suited to home gardeners. They require warm temperatures, plenty of sunlight, and well-drained soil to thrive. With proper care, it’s plants can produce a bountiful harvest of peppers throughout the growing season.
Overall, it is prized for its unique appearance, mild heat, and versatile flavor, making it a favorite among chili enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike. Whether used fresh or cooked, it adds a distinctive touch to dishes and is sure to impress with its striking appearance and delightful flavor.
- Origin: Barbados
- Scoville scale: 10k SHU
- Species: Capsicum Baccatum