If you’re looking to break up the monotony of your average spice rack, now is time to kick it up a notch by exploring hot and spicy peppers, powders and seasonings. Follow this guide to get fresh ideas for every taste level. From medium and hot, to downright fiery, this list has it covered. However, I must warn you, if you have the courage to try the world’s hottest pepper, do so at your own risk!
5. Cayenne Pepper
5. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne Pepper is named for the city of Cayenne in French Guiana, from where it originates. Sold in dried or powdered form, cayenne pepper is a great spice for seasoning shrimp, chicken and other grilled meats. It’s also tasty to add into stir fry’s and sauces for a medium to hot kick.
4. Aji Rojo
4. Aji Rojo
Frequently used in Peruvian cooking, aji rojo can be compared to cayenne pepper from a heat perspective. It’s often used to make sauces or simply chopped and served in everything from salads to main dishes.
3. Habanero Pepper
3. Habanero Pepper
Habanero peppers are some of the hottest peppers there are. Many restaurants serve habanero chicken wings for those brave enough to take the heat. Matter fact, you have to love heat to handle these peppers for sure!
2. White Pepper
2. White Pepper
I bet you thought white pepper was the exact same as black pepper, didn’t you? Well, white pepper is actually hotter than black but is said to be less complex with fewer flavor notes. White pepper is often used for aesthetic purposes, for things such as white sauces and mashed potatoes.
1. Tabasco Pepper
1. Tabasco Pepper
You’re probably familiar with Tabasco sauce, but have you ever considered adding a Tabasco pepper to your dish? They’re small but are extremely hot. Look for them in green, red, orange or yellow colors during your next trip to the grocery store.
