Chile Japones (also called “Chile Japon“) is a spicy dried pepper used in both Latin and Asian cuisine. This Japanese Pepper is called the “fire bringer” for a reason; it’s used to add a considerable amount of heat to any dish it’s used in. If you have a “burning desire” to find out more, read on!
What Is Chile Japones
Chile Japon is a popular chili pepper used in Asian and Latin cuisine. This chili pepper is native to both Mexico and throughout Asia. It’s known by many different names; they’re called Santaka, Hontaka, Japanese Pepper, and “the fire bringer.” They are an especially indispensable ingredient in Szechuan cuisine. The main function of the Japones Pepper is to add a considerable amount of heat to a dish without interrupting the flavor. These chili peppers are roughly 2 inches in length and are brightly colored with a rusty, lobster-red hue. They’re commonly sold in dried form where they can be ground into flakes and sprinkled into dishes.
What Do Japones Peppers Taste Like?
The Chile Japones isn’t known for adding flavor to a dish but for turning up the heat, similar to cayenne pepper. They are mostly without any distinguishable flavor.
How Hot Are Japanese Peppers?
Chile Japones, with a heat range of 15,000 to 30,000 on the Scoville scale, are roughly 6 times spicier than the jalapeno pepper (2,500 – 8,000 heat units). That’s why this chili pepper is considered to be fairly spicy. As I always say, “proceed with caution.” Just add a bit at a time to your dishes and then go back and add more. These chili peppers can be ground up into flakes so you can add a pinch at a time.
Substitute For The Chile Japones
Serrano pepper, cayenne pepper, and chile de arbol are all great substitutes for the Chile Japon. Each of these substitutes has comparable spice levels.
Where Can I Buy Japanese Peppers?
Chile Japones are not frequently sold in large-chain grocery stores. However, you may have luck finding them at an Asian or Mexican market. Finally, when all else fails, purchase them online through Amazon.
I hope you found this helpful! Happy chili shopping!
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