Scotch Bonnet peppers

A Scotch Bonnet pepper is an extremely hot chile closely related to the habanero. It rates 100,000 to 350,000 units on the Scoville scale, and it's about a 9-10 on the relative heat scale. (See the chile pepper heat scale)The chile may vary in color from yellow-green to orange and even bright red. The average size of this chile is about 1 to 1 1/2 inches long. The Scotch Bonnet is an essential ingredient in Jamaican Jerk spice and sauce, as well as Jamaican curries.

Scotch Bonnet chiles are pretty easy to find in most well-stocked grocery stores. You can typically find them at Trader Joes and Whole Foods markets, as well.

Substitute For Scotch Bonnet Peppers

If you can't find the Scotch Bonnet chiles or simply wish to try an alternative you can select one of these:

• Habanero chiles - (use equal amounts) are about equal in heat.  Depending on where you live these are typically easy to find in a well stocked grocery store. Some Walmart stores and Whole Foods carry them.
• OR - Serrano Chiles have a good amount of heat and may be easier for you to find.
• OR - Thai red chiles - have a different flavor profile but if you're looking for heat they will fill the bill.
• OR - Also very hot African Bird's Eye chile.