Seasons/Availability
Orange habanero chile peppers are available year-round.
Current Facts
Orange habanero chile peppers, botanically classified as Capsicum chinense are a variety of the species that is native to the Americas. The pepper is believed to have been cultivated in Jamaica and quickly spread through tropical regions where it was highly valued for its intense heat and sweet aroma. Orange habanero chile peppers are considered one of the hottest varieties on the market, measuring between 150,000-325,000 SHU (Scoville Heat Units) on the Scoville scale.
Applications
Orange habanero chile peppers can be used fresh or dried in Mexican, Latin American, Caribbean, and Southwestern dishes. They can be diced into salsas or sauces, grilled, roasted, or fried and used as a topping for soups, tacos, enchiladas, burritos, stews, and salads. It is also commonly blended into hot sauces or used to infuse oils and vinegars with flavor and heat. Orange habanero chile peppers pair well with tomatoes, garlic, onion, avocado, mangoes, fish sauce, shrimp paste, ginger root, cumin seed, oregano leaves and other chili varieties.
The peppers should be handled carefully when fresh to avoid contact with the eyes as their intense heat may cause irritation. Before consuming orange habanero chile peppers they should be worn gloves and washed thoroughly in cold water. They will keep up to one week when stored in a paper bag, refrigerated.
Nutritional Value
Orange habanero chile peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, potassium, folate, magnesium, copper and dietary fiber. They also contain carotenoids, which act as protective antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
Habanero peppers have been used in traditional medicine as a way to treat digestive issues, headaches, and pain. They can also be eaten raw or cooked to add flavor and heat to many dishes.
Precautions
Due to the intense levels of heat found in orange habanero chile peppers, they should be used cautiously and sparingly. Eating too much may cause irritation of the esophagus or stomach lining. Those with sensitive skin should wear gloves when handling these peppers and avoid touching their eyes after coming into contact with them. People who are taking certain medications or have kidney problems should consult their doctor before consuming large amounts of habaneros as it may interact with certain medications or worsen existing conditions.
