Scotch bonnet pepper, often recognized by their bright, vibrant colors and unique shape, are a staple in Caribbean cuisine. Known for their intense heat and fruity flavor, these peppers pack a punch both in terms of spice and nutritional benefits. This article delves into the world of Scotch bonnet pepper, providing you with hot recipes, health benefits, and detailed nutrition facts.
What Are Scotch Bonnet Pepper?
Scotch bonnet peppers are tiny, spherical chili peppers that also resemble the typical Scottish tam o’ shanter hat Scottish men wear. When mature, they can be green, yellow, or orange and turn red. They are very similar to habanero peppers, in terms of heat and Scoville rating which can range between 100,000 – 350,000 SHU
Cooking with Scotch Bonnet Pepper
Hot Recipe: Jamaican Jerk Chicken
One of the most common applications is for Scotch bonnet peppers that are made into preparation, such as in to make Jamaican jerk chicken which is iconically associated with a very spicy and hot marinade. Well, I am gonna show you a quick and easy recipe to have some nice Caribbean flavor right into your kitchen:
Ingredients:
- 4 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeds removed
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 chicken thighs
Instructions:
- Blend all the ingredients (except the chicken) into a smooth paste.
- Marinate the chicken thighs in the paste for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Grill or bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until fully cooked.
This dish pairs well with rice and peas, offering a hearty, spicy meal that showcases the Scotch bonnet’s heat and sweetness.
Nutritional Facts
Highly nutritious – it is not all Send me Nudes, Scotch bonnet has a lot of health benefits. 100 grams of this pepper contains:
- Calories: 40
- Vitamin A: 3% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin B6: 25% of the DV
- Vitamin C: 144% of the DV
- Vitamin E: 5% of the DV
- Vitamin K: 3% of the DV
- Potassium: 12% of the DV
- Phosphorus: 7% of the DV.
All these vitamins help make your immune system strong, maintain healthy skin and play important roles in the physiology of muscle function as well as nerve transmission.
Health Benefits
Boosts Metabolism and Aids in Weight Loss
Capsaicin, the primary compound that accounts for heat in Scotch bonnet peppers has been proven to increase metabolism assisting with weight loss. It raises the body temperature which can help with fat oxidation.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Scotch bonnet peppers also contain capsaicin, a molecule with remarkable anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve inflammation and reduce pain. Especially best for people with arthritis or other inflammatory issues.
Heart Health
Regular intake of Scotch Bonnet peppers can help improve heart health. Not only does capsaicin lower LDL cholesterol levels, it can reduce cardiovascular risk. In addition, it can enhance the flow blood and lower down the chances of having a blood clot.
Rich in Antioxidants
These peppers are a good source of antioxidants, vitamin C, beta-carotene which protects the body from free radical damage. This translates to lowered risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
How to Handle and Store Scotch Bonnet Pepper
Handling Tips
Scotch bonnet is extremely hot and hence you should handle them with caution. When slicing, cutting or handling these little devils always make a picket fence around those hands with plastic gloves on because the juice will irritate your skin like crazy! The use of capsaicin can be painful, particularly in the eyes; do not make contact along with your face.
Storage
Scotch bonnet peppers can be kept in the refrigerator for no longer than two weeks. After this, you can store them in freezer for a long run. Take the peppers wash and dry them place in an airtight container or freezer bag. If you ever dry some fresh Scotch Bonnet peppers (juicy, juice just like a Harvey Wallbanger?) keep them in a dark cool place to hold onto their powder.
Substitutes for Scotch Bonnet Peppers
If you are not able to find Scotch Bonnets, there a few alternatives that can give the heat and flavor:
Habanero Peppers: They pack similar if equal health & make great substitutes because they cousins.
Ghost Peppers: To make it a little spicier, use ghost peppers instead but be careful with the portions to adjust heat level.
Jalapeno or Serrano Peppers: The milder side but will do in a pinch, this one can be used if you want really little to no heat.
The Bottom Line
Scotch bonnet pepper can be used in a wide range of dishes as it brings so much flavour and spiciness to any dish. In addition to their warmth, they provide several health advantages and a good deal of nutrition. Scotch bonnet pepper will liven up any of your Caribbean dishes that you are preparing or simply being a part of the fun trying out new zesty recipes.
