If you’ve ever been on a Caribbean vacation, you’ve probably had amazing meals using Scotch bonnet peppers. This is due to the fact that this pepper is the most often used in this region of the globe for particularly spicy foods. These peppers are mainly cultivated in Jamaica and are available fresh or dried.
This pepper’s heat level, often known as the Scoville rating, ranges from 100,000 to 350,000, giving it a fiery sensation equivalent to other hot peppers such as the habanero. Although the Scotch Bonnet has a unique flavor, if you can’t get your hands on the actual thing, there are various replacements you may use to imitate its flavor and heat.
Contents
- What is a scotch bonnet pepper?
- How healthy (or unhealthy) is it?
- What recipes use scotch bonnet peppers?
- Why do we need scotch bonnet pepper substitutes?
- The Bottom Line
- FAQs
- What can I use in place of scotch bonnet peppers?
- What is scotch bonnet pepper compared to?
- What can I use instead of scotch bonnet in jerk?
- What’s another name for a scotch bonnet pepper?
- Are habanero and scotch bonnet interchangeable?
- Is scotch bonnet the same as Carolina Reaper?
- Which is hotter scotch bonnet or jalapeño?
- What is a milder pepper than scotch bonnet?
- What flavor is Scotch bonnet pepper?
- What is equivalent to scotch bonnet pepper powder?
What is a scotch bonnet pepper?
The Scotch bonnet pepper gets its name from its unusual form. These peppers have been flattened and are said to resemble a Scotsman’s bonnet. It also goes by several names depending on where you are in the Caribbean. You could also hear them referred to as Jamaican hots or Bahama mamas. Some of the peppers are less flat, but retain the fiery taste that Caribbean cuisine is known for.
Take in mind that this is one of the hottest peppers available, having about the same heat level as a habanero. It is significantly hotter than a pepper like a jalapeño, particularly when purchased in places with a big Caribbean population. They are frequently more costly than other peppers and may be purchased sliced, diced, or whole.
How healthy (or unhealthy) is it?
Consuming Scotch bonnet peppers has a few health advantages for individuals who can take the heat. They include a variety of vitamins, including A, B, and C. They also include a lot of minerals including magnesium, iron, riboflavin, and niacin. This pepper is also abundant in flavonoids, dietary fiber, carotenoids, and phytochemicals.
The capsaicin in the pepper gives it its hot flavor, and it may help with osteoarthritis, diabetic neuropathy, headaches, and rheumatic discomfort. It is also often used to treat sinusitis and congestion.
Nutritional Breakdown
|
Scotch bonnet chili |
Quantity (per 10 peppers) (per 10 peppers) |
% Daily intake recommendation |
|
Calories |
201 kcal |
10% |
|
Fat in total |
0 g |
0% |
|
Saturated fatty acid |
0 g |
0% |
|
Carbohydrates |
30 g |
11% |
|
Cholesterol |
0 mg |
0% |
|
Salt |
100 mg |
5% |
|
Protein |
10 g |
20% |
|
Sugars |
20 g |
53% |
|
B-12 vitamin |
0 ug |
0% |
|
Scoville scale |
100,000 350,000 |
– |
(CalorieKing nutritional information is used.)
What recipes use scotch bonnet peppers?
There are several recipes for Caribbean hot pepper sauce, each with its own set of ingredients based on the cook’s preferences. The Scotch bonnet pepper, on the other hand, is an ingredient found in practically every recipe. Scotch bonnet peppers are also used in jerk recipes such as chicken, where the meat is highly spiced and then cooked on a grill. Other foods that employ Scotch bonnet peppers include some types of jam, barbequed pork, Creole sauce, and stuffed chile peppers.
Why do we need scotch bonnet pepper substitutes?
Although Scotch bonnet peppers are a great option for heat and a delicious taste, they might be difficult to locate in places with a low Caribbean population. Since most stores do not stock them, they might be difficult to locate. This might be an issue if you wish to utilize a recipe that calls for this pepper. But, there are various viable substitutes for Scotch bonnet peppers that will guarantee your food tastes just as good as if you used the genuine thing.
Note:
= vegan
1. Habanero pepper🌱
Hot sauce, salsa, chili paste, wings, and jelly work best.
Overview
The habanero pepper is a fiery, tiny chili pepper that is produced across South America and the United States. This pepper has a thin skin and is shorter and squatter than others. It is available in a variety of hues ranging from red to orange. It is not suggested to consume this pepper whole since it is quite spicy. It may, however, be used in dishes like as salsa, salad dressing, and sauces.
Advantages
Most of the time, you won’t be consuming enough of this Scotch bonnet pepper replacement to get adequate nutrients. Yet, you can be certain that it is fat-free, low in calories, and has very little salt. The pepper also has a high potassium and vitamin C content. Since it has a similar heat level as the Scotch bonnet, it will work in most of the same recipes without any modifications.
Disadvantages
The habanero pepper, being one of the hottest peppers on the market, may induce stomach troubles in persons who have them. Irritable bowel syndrome, heartburn, and acid reflux are examples of such conditions. Also, although it contains certain nutrients, they are in modest quantities in most recipes. This pepper’s mildly fruity taste might be a benefit or a disadvantage depending on the kind of foods you want to prepare with it.
Nutritional breakdown
|
Habanero chili pepper |
Amount (per 100 g) (per 100 g) |
% Daily intake recommendation |
|
Calories |
38 kcal |
2% |
|
Fat in total |
0 g |
0% |
|
Saturated fatty acid |
0 g |
0% |
|
Carbohydrates |
8 g |
3% |
|
Cholesterol |
0 mg |
0% |
|
Salt |
0 mg |
0% |
|
Protein |
0 g |
0% |
|
Sugars |
0 g |
0% |
|
C vitamin |
92 mg |
118% |
|
Scoville scale |
100,000 350,000 |
– |
(This is based on USDA nutritional data.)
2. Jalapeno pepper🌱
Jalapeno poppers, mac and cheese, burgers, sauces, and veggies are all excellent choices.
Overview
The jalapeño is a nightshade pepper that is less fiery than the other peppers we’ve discussed so far. That is, it belongs to the same family as vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, and eggplant. The spiciness level of Scotch bonnet pepper substitutes will vary depending on the pH of the soil as well as the amount of sunshine it has grown in. They are often used in Mexican cuisine, are affordable, and can be found in most stores.
Advantages
While jalapeno peppers have little calories, a single pepper may provide about a third of your daily requirement of vitamin C. Moreover, they include vitamin B6, vitamin A, vitamin K, and folate. Copper, magnesium, manganese, iron, and potassium are minerals present in jalapeo. Capsaicin, which gives peppers their spiciness, may also help decrease blood pressure, reduce appetite, and assist digestion.
Disadvantages
The biggest disadvantage of using jalapenos rather than Scotch bonnet peppers is that they are significantly milder. Additionally, jalapenos lack the fruitiness that other peppers provide to a meal. The outcomes of jalapenos may not live up to expectations in recipes that need a lot of spice. These are, however, simple to locate and a wonderful alternative if you like your foods to be a bit less spicy.
Nutritional breakdown
|
The jalapeno pepper |
Amount (per 100 g) (per 100 g) |
% Daily intake recommendation |
|
Calories |
29 kcal |
1% |
|
Fat in total |
0.4 g |
0.7% |
|
Saturated fatty acid |
0 g |
0% |
|
Carbohydrates |
7 g |
3% |
|
Cholesterol |
0 mg |
0% |
|
Salt |
3 mg |
0.2% |
|
Protein |
1 g |
2% |
|
Calcium |
12 mg |
16% |
|
B-12 vitamin |
0 ug |
0% |
|
Scoville scale |
2,500 8,000 |
– |
(This is based on USDA nutritional data.)
3. Serrano pepper 🌱
Relishes, garnishes, salsas, spicy sauces, and meatballs work well.
Overview
The serrano pepper gets its name from the highlands of Mexico where it was initially grown. Although they are classified as a pepper, they are also classified as a fruit and are widely used in genuine Mexican recipes. These peppers are frequently used in Southeast Asian meals to offer a great bite of flavor to your favorite recipes. This Scotch bonnet pepper alternative, which has a considerable degree of heat and bitterness, may be used raw or cooked in a variety of dips and sauces. They may also be prepared roasted or pickled.
Advantages
In terms of nutrition, the serrano pepper is low in calories, with the majority of the calories coming from fiber. This pepper is low in cholesterol and fat, yet abundant in vitamins A and C. Together with the other advantages already discussed, capsaicin in peppers is thought to be excellent for heart health. Apart from that, serrano peppers are one of the more common varietals and can offer a nice dose of heat and spice to a variety of recipes.
Disadvantages
One difference between serrano peppers and Scotch bonnet peppers is that serrano peppers have significantly less heat. People seeking for a big kick may be disappointed by the lack of heat in this pepper. Although they are readily available in most stores, there are other hotter choices that will provide more heat and will perform better in recipes that depend on it.
Nutritional breakdown
|
Serrano chile |
Amount (per 100 g) (per 100 g) |
% Daily intake recommendation |
|
Calories |
32 kcal |
2% |
|
Fat in total |
0.4 g |
0.7% |
|
Saturated fatty acid |
0 g |
0% |
|
Carbohydrates |
7 g |
3% |
|
Cholesterol |
0 mg |
0% |
|
Salt |
10 mg |
0.5% |
|
Protein |
2 g |
4% |
|
Calcium |
11 mg |
1% |
|
C vitamin |
45 mg |
60% |
|
Scoville scale |
10,000 23,000 |
– |
(This is based on USDA nutritional data.)
4. Rocotillo pepper 🌱
Soups, stews, salsa, garnish, and lamb and beef.
Overview
A rocotillo pepper resembles a Scotch bonnet pepper but is considerably milder. This is a very mild pepper that is somewhat spicier than the poblano. It does, however, have a touch more sweetness than other peppers. Since there are two types of this pepper, one from Peru and the other from an unknown origin source, there is frequently some misunderstanding. Both, though, seem identical and contain the same amount of heat.
Advantages
If you want a Scotch bonnet pepper replacement with less spice, the rocotillo is one of your finest possibilities. Whereas a Scotch bonnet pepper has a Scoville rating of 100,000 or more, a rocotillo pepper has a Scoville value of 1,500 to 2,500. Another benefit of using this pepper is that it has the same fruity flavor as Scotch bonnets, thus it may be used in Caribbean cuisine.
Disadvantages
The first thing that might be aggravating while seeking for rocotillo peppers is their scarcity on the market. In most circumstances, finding rocotillo peppers will be even more difficult than finding Scotch bonnet peppers. This pepper is also unsuitable for individuals looking for a lot of heat, since it is not as hot as other alternatives.
Nutritional breakdown
|
The rocoto pepper |
Amount (per 100 g) (per 100 g) |
% Daily intake recommendation |
|
Calories |
40 kcal |
2% |
|
Fat in total |
0.4 g |
0.7% |
|
Saturated fatty acid |
0 g |
0% |
|
Carbohydrates |
9 g |
3% |
|
Cholesterol |
0 mg |
0% |
|
Salt |
9 mg |
0.5% |
|
Protein |
5 g |
10% |
|
Calcium |
14 mg |
1% |
|
B-12 vitamin |
0 ug |
0% |
|
Scoville scale |
1,500 2,500 |
– |
(This is based on USDA nutritional data.)
5. Thai red chile 🌱
Curry, sauces, soups, shellfish, and fowl are all excellent choices.
Overview
Thai red chile is another nightshade pepper that may refer to various chilies with similar forms, sizes, and degrees of spiciness. These peppers are known by different names in different parts of the world, which might cause consumer confusion. These peppers are often referred to as Birds Eye peppers because birds adore them. Although not as intense as Scotch bonnet peppers, these peppers have a considerable amount of heat, ranging from 50,000 and above on the Scoville scale.
Advantages
Thai red chile peppers may be eaten fresh or cooked in meals such as boiling, sautéing, and stir-frying. They are also quite hot, making them a great replacement for Scotch bonnet peppers. In terms of nutrition, these peppers include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and vitamin K. They also include fiber, potassium, and copper to help you achieve your daily vitamin and mineral requirements.
Disadvantages
Although these peppers have a delicious taste, they also have an earthy flavor that the Scotch bonnet does not, which may introduce unwanted qualities into your recipe. It might also be difficult to obtain these peppers since they come in a variety of tastes and heat levels.
Nutritional breakdown
|
Thai red pepper |
Amount (per 100 g) (per 100 g) |
% Daily intake recommendation |
|
Calories |
40 kcal |
2% |
|
Fat in total |
0.6 g |
1% |
|
Saturated fatty acid |
0 g |
0% |
|
Carbohydrates |
3 g |
1% |
|
Cholesterol |
0 mg |
0% |
|
Salt |
0 g |
0% |
|
Protein |
2 g |
4% |
|
Calcium |
0 mg |
0% |
|
B-12 vitamin |
0 ug |
0% |
|
Scoville scale |
50,000 100,000 |
– |
(This is based on USDA nutritional data.)
The Bottom Line
The Scotch bonnet pepper is used in a variety of cuisines, particularly ones that are anticipated to be spicy. The only problem is that, unless you reside in a major Caribbean community, this specific pepper may be exceedingly difficult to locate. That is why having a few options is a good idea, particularly if you cook with spicy peppers regularly. Our alternatives vary from very hot to mild, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your specific palette.
Top vegan picks
All of the peppers included in this page are vegan, meaning they contain no animal ingredients or byproducts. As a result, our favorite vegan selection is the habanero pepper, which has the same sweetness and amount of heat as the Scotch bonnet pepper. If you like less heat than a Scotch bonnet gives, you may use a jalapeño pepper instead, which will provide flavor without the added heat.
Top healthy picks
The majority of the Scotch bonnet pepper replacements on this list are healthful. Several of them provide a low-fat, low-calorie option that contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, and other elements. The serrano pepper, which is high in both vitamin A and C, is one of the healthiest replacements. Jalapeno peppers are another option for health and wellbeing, since they include various vitamins and minerals that other peppers do not.
Top convenient picks
You must consider your location while considering the convenience element. Scotch bonnet peppers are simple to get if you live in a region with a big Caribbean population. But, for the great majority of individuals, the most handy peppers will be jalapeño and habanero. Obtaining rocotillo peppers or even Thai red chile peppers might be more difficult.
Top convincing picks
So you have a recipe that asks for Scotch bonnet peppers but no method of getting your hands on them. Certain choices will be more persuasive than others if you want a believable Scotch bonnet pepper equivalent. A habanero pepper is the greatest option for a Scotch bonnet’s taste and spiciness. It has the same amount of heat as the Scotch bonnet, which many other peppers don’t have. It also has a fruity taste in the background, which works well in Caribbean cuisine.
Sources:
scotch-bonnet-pepperdetailingredientswww.gourmetsleuth.comhttps:
scotch-bonnet-chili-2137836www.thespruceeats.comhttps:
what-are-habanero-peppers-995710www.thespruceeats.comhttps:
Chili Rocotillo Peppers
FAQs
What can I use in place of scotch bonnet peppers?
15 Greatest Scotch Bonnet Pepper Replacements
Peppers with a jalapeo kick.
Habanero peppers.
Thai chilies.
Cayenne peppers are spicy peppers.
Tabasco sauce.
Serrano Chiles.
The Anaheim Peppers.
Poblano peppers.
More to come…
•Nov 7, 2022
What is scotch bonnet pepper compared to?
Scotch bonnet peppers are 12 to 140 times hotter than jalapeos. It’s also 2 to 12 times hotter than the cayenne pepper in your spice cabinet. That’s a big increase in heat. Of course, there are more hotter chiles on the Scoville scale than the scotch bonnet.
What can I use instead of scotch bonnet in jerk?
If you can’t get scotch bonnet peppers, habanero peppers are your next best option. These don’t taste precisely the same, but they’ll do in a hurry.
What’s another name for a scotch bonnet pepper?
Scotch bonnet (also known as Bonney peppers or Caribbean red peppers) is a kind of chili pepper named after the Scottish tam o’ shanter hat.
Are habanero and scotch bonnet interchangeable?
These chilis have varying degrees of heat, but their flavors are also distinct. Habaneros have a somewhat sweet and fruity flavor that is slightly bitter. Scotch Bonnets are similarly sweet and delicious, but not bitter. Individuals who are inexperienced with the various chili heat levels and tastes will detect no change.
Is scotch bonnet the same as Carolina Reaper?
The Carolina Reaper packs roughly a 15th of the punch of a scotch bonnet pepper, yet it burns about 15 times as hot as a scotch bonnet pepper. Jalapenos, a mild pepper, provide around 1 teaspoon of heat.
Which is hotter scotch bonnet or jalapeño?
The scotch bonnet may be up to 40 times hotter than a regular jalapeo pepper, with a heat level of 100,000-350,000 scoville units.
What is a milder pepper than scotch bonnet?
The jalapeo is significantly milder than the scotch bonnet pepper, although its taste is comparable.
What flavor is Scotch bonnet pepper?
What Do You Think It Tastes Like? Scotch bonnets are quite hot peppers, yet they may have an almost sweet, faintly fruity flavor below the spiciness. This might vary from place to region since it is dependent on the soil conditions in which they are cultivated.
What is equivalent to scotch bonnet pepper powder?
Habanero chilies.
The habanero pepper is the greatest scotch bonnet alternative. They are not only extremely comparable to scotch bonnets in taste and heat intensity, but they are also considerably simpler to get. Habanero peppers may be substituted 1:1.