
How spicy is Carolina Reaper?
If you love spicy food, you've undoubtedly heard of the Carolina Reaper. But just how spicy is this infamous pepper? In this article, we delve into the world of Scoville Heat Units (SHU), the scale that indicates a pepper's heat level, and why the Carolina Reaper is so notorious.
What is the Scoville Scale?
The spiciness of peppers is measured using the Scoville scale, developed by Wilbur Scoville in 1912. This scale measures the capsaicin content of a pepper, the substance responsible for the burning sensation. The higher the SHU value, the hotter the pepper.
The Carolina Reaper by the numbers
The Carolina Reaper is known as the hottest pepper in the world, averaging 1,641,183 SHU and peaking at 2.2 million SHU ! For comparison:
- Jalapeño : 2,500 - 8,000 SHU
- Habanero : 100,000 - 350,000 SHU
- Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Pepper) : 1,000,000 SHU
That means the Carolina Reaper is hundreds of times hotter than a jalapeño!
What makes the Carolina Reaper so hot?
This pepper is a cross between a Pakistani Naga pepper and a Red Habanero. This unique combination not only produces extreme heat but also a fruity flavor with a hint of sweetness. But don't be fooled—the heat builds quickly and lingers for a long time!
The Carolina Reaper is often used in hot sauce competitions and "Hot Ones"-style challenges. Remember: if you dare, be prepared! Make sure you have milk or yogurt on hand to soften the heat.
Spicy products like Mr. Scoville's not only add excitement to your meal but also give you a real endorphin boost. It's more than just a flavor; it's an experience!
Curious about more spicy products? Discover our special snacks and sauces with Carolina Reaper and get ready for a flavor explosion you won't soon forget!