The Moruga Scorpion Red chili pepper is one of the hottest pepper varieties in the world world until 2013, renowned for its extreme heat and distinctive fruity flavor. Originally from the Moruga district of Trinidad and Tobago.
Moruga Scorpion Red (Capsicum chinense)
- Heat Level: The Moruga Scorpion Red pepper consistently ranks among the hottest peppers on the Scoville Heat Scale, often surpassing 2 million Scoville Heat Units (SHU). At its peak, it has been recorded to exceed even the Carolina Reaper in heat intensity, making it a favorite among chili enthusiasts seeking the ultimate spicy experience.
- Appearance: The Moruga Scorpion Red pepper typically has a gnarled and bumpy appearance, with a tapered shape that comes to a point at the end. The skin of the ripe pepper ranges from bright red to deep crimson, sometimes with hints of brown or purple. The pepper’s distinctive appearance makes it easily recognizable among other chili varieties.
- Flavor Profile: Despite its searing heat, the Moruga Scorpion Red pepper offers more than just fiery intensity. It is prized for its complex flavor profile, which includes fruity and floral notes alongside the intense heat. Some describe its flavor as having hints of tropical fruits like pineapple or mango, adding depth and complexity to dishes.
- Culinary Uses: Due to its extreme heat and bold flavor, the Moruga Scorpion Red pepper is typically used sparingly in culinary applications. It can be added to salsas, hot sauces, and marinades to provide a powerful kick of heat, but caution is advised due to its potency. Even a small amount of Moruga Scorpion pepper can significantly elevate the spiciness of a dish.
- Growing Habits: Like other chili pepper varieties, the Moruga Scorpion Red pepper thrives in warm, sunny climates. It requires well-drained soil and regular watering to produce healthy fruit. While it can be challenging to grow due to its high heat tolerance and specific growing conditions, many dedicated chili growers take on the challenge to cultivate this prized pepper.
- Scoville Heat Units (SHU): The Moruga Scorpion Red’s extreme heat is quantified on the Scoville Heat Scale, which measures the concentration of capsaicinoids responsible for the pepper’s spiciness. Its high SHU rating places it among the elite ranks of the world’s hottest chili peppers, making it a sought-after ingredient for those who enjoy pushing the boundaries of culinary heat.
Overall, the Moruga Scorpion Red pepper is not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare to brave its intense heat, it offers a thrilling culinary experience unlike any other, with its fiery punch and complex flavor profile leaving a lasting impression.
- Origin: Trinidad and Tobago
- Scoville scale: 2M – 1,5M SHU