Explore Chiles
Carolina Reaper botanical illustration

Carolina Reaper

Capsicum chinense

A superhot chile with a documented historical Guinness record; current record status is separate.

Extreme 1,400,000–2,200,000 SHU
Flavor
Superhot, lingering, aggressive.
Origin
South Carolina, United States
Best uses
Firebox sauces, challenge content.
Days to maturity
100-150

How the heat plays out

Early estimate
LowModerateHighVery highExtremeFirst biteLater

Arrives after a delay, climbs to an extreme peak, and lingers a long time, felt in the mouth and throat. Aggressive, lingering

In the kitchen

Fresh
Use in tiny quantities.
Dried
Dries and powders readily.
Smoked
Smoke can dominate.
Roasted
Cook carefully.
Fermented
Use in controlled sauce blends.

Substitutes

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