Aji Charapita

Aji Charapita chilli seeds. The Aji Charapita (C. Chinense) is a wild variety from the jungles of northern Peru. A popular chilli variety in Peru, the Aji Charapita can be seen grown in back gardens, balconies and is very popular in Peruvian cuisine. This variety is now commercially grown and is used extensively in fine dining establishments around the globe. Where there is demand, there is always a price tag and this chilli has a reputedly huge price tag. It is claimed to be the most expensive spice in the world with prices for Aji Charapita powder reaching sky high. This chilli has been labeled as the "Mother of all chillies" due to its exceptional flavour and we can only agree with this. The Aji Charapita can be tricky to germinate as it is a wild variety and will require special attention when germinating. Once it gets going through it is very easy going. A small to medium compact and bushy plant that can produce hundreds of tiny tepin like chillies that are round about pea size. Pods have long stalks and ripen from a light green to bright golden yellow when fully ripened. Pods are very aromatic. Sweet, fruity habanero/scotch bonnet aromas of bannoffee reminiscent of Scotch Bonnets and Fataliis. Flavour wise, these little pods are full of fruity flavour, citrus and sweetness. An absolute sensory delight all contained in these tiny little pods. Traditionally, these pods can be used fresh or best of all dried and used as a seasoning spice par excellence! A truly magnificent chilli well worth the tittle "Mother of all chillies".