The pequin pepper, despite its diminutive size, boasts an upper-medium heat ranging from 40,000 to 60,000 Scoville heat units. Often mistaken for its cousin, the chiltepin, the pequin stands as a distinct chili variety with a smoky, fruity flavor profile that sets it apart. Found in popular hot sauces like Cholula, this little powerhouse adds a punch to your culinary creations.
In terms of heat, pequin peppers outshine the jalapeño by five to twenty-four times, aligning them closely with cayenne pepper. However, the pequin consistently offers a higher heat level than the mildest cayenne, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a fiery kick.
While the chiltepin shares similarities in spiciness, it often surpasses the pequin in heat, flirting with extra-hot levels. This tiny chili, less than an inch in length, follows the typical color progression from green to a rich red upon maturity. Often referred to as “bird peppers” due to their small size, pequin peppers are a favored treat for birds.
In terms of flavor, green pequin peppers exhibit a peppery taste with hints of smoke and citrus. However, the real magic happens when they ripen to a vibrant red. At this stage, pequin peppers offer a smoky, nutty flavor with underlying citrusy fruitiness, setting them apart from their chiltepin counterpart.
Pequin peppers find widespread use in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine, particularly in salsas and Tex-Mex dishes. Whether fresh or dried, these tiny peppers elevate dishes with their unique taste. Dried red pequin peppers, in particular, lend a pronounced smokiness, making them ideal for salsas, flavored oils, hot sauces, and soups.
A word of caution: despite their size, pequin peppers pack a potent punch, and home chefs should exercise restraint to avoid over-spicing. Gloves are recommended when handling these chilies to prevent unintended chili burn. Additionally, consider experimenting with pequin peppers in barbecue dishes, as their natural smokiness complements bold barbecue flavors seamlessly.
Incorporate pequin peppers into your culinary repertoire for a spicy journey that goes beyond their tiny appearance, delivering big on heat and flavor.
