If you are a fan of hot food something that might interest you is what the hottest peppers in the world are. Surprisingly, peppers are in fact ranked by what is known as the Scoville Heat Units (SHU) which indicates the quantity of capsaicin that it contains, the compound that provides the spicy feel to the peppers. Well then, gear up to have your taste buds spoiled because below is the list of the most popular hottest peppers in the world!
Bred in South Carolina, this pepper holds the Guinness World Record for the hottest pepper. It has a fruity flavor with a deadly heat.
2. Trinidad Moruga Scorpion
Pepper Name
Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
Description
Trinidad Moruga Scorpion
1,200,000 – 2,009,231
Originating from Trinidad, this pepper’s heat builds slowly to a scorching level. It has a slightly sweet, fruity taste.
3. 7 Pot Douglah
Pepper Name
Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
Description
7 Pot Douglah
1,853,936
Known for its dark brown color and extreme heat, it’s said that one pepper can spice up seven pots of stew.
4. 7 Pot Primo
Pepper Name
Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
Description
7 Pot Primo
1,473,480
This pepper from Louisiana has a distinct wrinkled appearance and intense heat.
5. Trinidad Scorpion Butch T
Pepper Name
Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
Description
Trinidad Scorpion Butch T
1,463,700
Once held the title of the world’s hottest pepper, known for its intense burn and fruity flavor.
6. Naga Viper
Pepper Name
Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
Description
Naga Viper
1,349,000
A hybrid pepper created in the UK, known for its intense heat and unique flavor.
7. Ghost Pepper (Bhut Jolokia)
Pepper Name
Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
Description
Ghost Pepper
1,041,427
Originating from India, this pepper was once the hottest in the world and is famous for its intense heat.
8. 7 Pot Barrackpore
Pepper Name
Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
Description
7 Pot Barrackpore
1,000,000 – 1,300,000
Another member of the 7 Pot family, known for its potent heat and fruity undertones.
9. 7 Pot Brown
Pepper Name
Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
Description
7 Pot Brown
1,000,000 – 1,200,000
This chocolate-colored pepper packs a serious punch, often used in sauces and salsas.
10. Red Savina Habanero
Pepper Name
Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
Description
Red Savina Habanero
350,000 – 577,000
Once the hottest pepper in the world, it has a rich, fruity flavor and intense heat.
Conclusion
These peppers are not associated with those who are faint-hearted. They’re extremely hot and can give a wonderful extra flavour to your foods but should be used with careful moderation. Hot peppers should always be dealt with carefully, ensuring that one uses gloves while handling them, avoiding the face and other sensitive part of the body. From a simple introduction to several of the hottest varieties to the various steps in making a proper chili, this list is sure to add some heat to any kitchen.
Hello! I'm Paul, the passionate gardener behind The Leaf Shed. At 40 years old and hailing from the beautiful landscapes of Scotland, I've cultivated a deep love for all things green and growing. Gardening isn't just a hobby for me—it's a way of life that brings joy, tranquility, and a profound connection to nature.
