Peppers have arrived at the farmers markets and the mix and varieties increase each week. Chilies and peppers are popular for several reasons, including their unique taste, versatility in cooking, health benefits, and cultural significance. Here are some more fun facts about peppers:
- Peppers were originally cultivated in Central and South America and have been a part of human diets for thousands of years.
- The heat of a pepper is measured on the Scoville scale, which quantifies the amount of capsaicin present. Capsaicin is the compound responsible for the spicy sensation.
- The Carolina Reaper holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s hottest pepper, with an average Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating of over 1.6 million.
- Peppers come in a variety of colors, including green, red, yellow, orange, and even purple. Each color indicates a different level of ripeness and flavor.
- Chile peppers have been used for various medicinal purposes throughout history, including pain relief and digestion improvement.
- The bell pepper is one of the few pepper varieties that does not produce capsaicin, which is why it is sweet and not spicy.
- Peppers are not only a rich source of vitamin C but also contain vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.
- There are over 50,000 varieties of peppers, ranging from mild and sweet to extremely hot.
- In some cultures, peppers are used as a natural pest repellent in gardens and farms due to their strong aroma.
- Peppers have made their way into various cuisines worldwide, from the spicy curries of India to the famous hot sauces of Mexico and the savory dishes of Thailand.
Enjoy the high season for peppers at the farmers’ market, and don’t be afraid to explore the diverse flavors and heat levels they have to offer!
Looking for a specific pepper or chili? Here is a quick guide to the farmers who grow them.
Borba Family Farms
Bell, Fresno, Guindilla, Hot Portugal, Hungarian, Italian, Jalapeño, Padrón, Poblano, Shishito, Southwestern Chili
Phil Foster Ranch (Pinnacle)
Anaheim, Cordo Di Toro, Bells, Jalapeño, Mini Sweet, Padrón, Poblano, Serrano, Shishito, Mini Sweet
Cabrillo College Horticulture
Padrón, Rocoto, Shishito
Sea to Sky Farm
Anaheim, Banana, Bell, Cayenne, Hot Wax, Jalapeño, Lemon Drop, Lipstick, Padrón, Pimento, Poblano, Serrano, Shishito
Pacific Rare Nursery
Hot Peppers, Sweet Peppers
Prevedelli Farm
Carmen, El Jefe, Jalapeño, Jimmy Nardello, Padron
Mora Family Farms
Habanero, Hungarian Hot Wax, Jimmy Nardello, Lunchbox, Padrón, Poblano, Red Flame, Shishito
KT Farms
Spicy Asian peppers
RECIPES: Here’s a link to a collection of our pepper recipes!
