description Pequín Chile Overview
Pequín (also spelled pequin) is a small, hot chili pepper of the Capsicum annuum species native to northern Mexico. The tapered fruits, typically 1–2 cm long, ripen from green to red and are most often used dried and crushed as a seasoning for salsas, soups, beans, and snacks. Pequín is also the wild form from which several domesticated Mexican chiles, including jalapeño and serrano, are believed to descend.
help Pequín Chile FAQ
How hot is the Pequín chili pepper on the Scoville scale?
The Pequín pepper is quite hot, typically ranging from 30,000 to 60,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). This means it is significantly spicier than a standard jalapeño, delivering a sharp, biting heat.
What does a Pequín chili look like?
The Pequín is a very small pepper, usually measuring only 1 to 2 centimeters in length. It has an elongated, tapered shape and ripens from a bright green to a vibrant red color.
How is the Pequín pepper traditionally used in Mexican cooking?
Because of their intense heat, they are most often dried, crushed, and sprinkled as a seasoning over salsas, soups, beans, and even fresh fruit. They are also commonly used to infuse flavor into vinegar-based hot sauces.
Are Pequín chilis related to the Tabasco pepper?
Yes, both the Pequín and Tabasco peppers belong to the exact same botanical species, Capsicum annuum. The Pequín is actually considered one of the wild ancestors of many of the domesticated chili peppers we eat today.
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