Are Habaneros and Scotch Bonnets the same? If you are a spice lover then you might know about these scotch bonnet and habanero peppers that are among the hottest categories. These peppers often make people confused due to a lot of similarities they both hold. The scotch bonnet peppers and the habanero peppers have similar shapes, and tastes. Just not that both plants have the same harvesting time. If you are confused as well as what is the difference between the scotch bonnet and habanero peppers this article is for you and clears your doubts.
Scotch bonnet and habanero peppers belong to the capsicum group and the same genus means there are a lot of similar things between them. Though these both are spicier. The main difference is that the scotch bonnet originated in the Jamaican area whereas the habanero peppers in Mexico.
There is a slight difference you will see in the shape of both peppers on watching keenly. The scotch bonnet has a spherical shape while the habanero has an elliptical shape with one end pointed like a drop.
Which is spicier? Scotch Bonnet or Habanero Peppers
Both the peppers have the same SHU( Scoville heat units) which is 100,000 to 350,000 SHU. So it is a bit hard to say which is spicier. The habanero having a little hint of bitterness makes the eater feel spicier. The scotch bonnet peppers have little sugar. Though it still feels spicy, it is less spicy compared to the former. Habanero peppers are spicier. But keep this in mind that they both have the same level of spice but just due to little bitterness the habanero took the leash.
What are Scotch Bonnets?
Scotch bonnet peppers are also called Bonney peppers or Caribbean red peppers due to their wide usage in the Caribbean region. Also, they are used commonly in the west African areas. These peppers belong to the chili pepper group and look a lot like tam o’ shanter hats. The young scotch bonnet peppers are green in color which on maturity transform to a berry red color.
What are Habanero Peppers?
The habaneros just like the scotch bonnet belong to the capsicum genus. These peppers turn from green to orange and red depending on the type. The habaneros have a similar spice to that of scotch bonnets.
To know more about the plant world, you may also read related articles, Can I grow Jalapeno Peppers in a Pot? (Easy & Tested Tips)
Are Habaneros and Scotch Bonnets the same? -What are the differences between Scotch Bonnet Peppers and Habanero Peppers?
On basis of popularity
The habanero peppers are more popular than the scotch bonnet peppers. The habanero sauces are searched more by the people in markets, on search engines, etc.
On basis of taste
The habanero peppers and scotch bonnet peppers are almost similar in spice but there is a mild difference between the flavors of these two. The habanero peppers have a smoky flavor with sweetness in it. One also gets a hint of fruit to floral smell in the habanero peppers. While the scotch bonnet peppers have a sweet flavor with a little hint of floral fragrance in them.
On basis of Appearance
The habanero and scotch bonnet have again a mild difference between their shoes but yes there is a difference! The habanero pepper has one side rounded while the other pointed and is more like a teardrop or lantern-like shape whereas the scotch bonnet peppers are not there pointed and are more like oval or pumpkin-like but in a rounded way.
On basis of Availability
Both of these peppers are easily available where they originated like for habanero peppers Mexico have them naturally whereas scotch. Onnet peppers are easily available in Caribbean areas and are highly popular in that population. These peppers are now available in many supermarkets due to gaining popularity.
Concluding lines
We hope this article was useful to you in understanding the difference between scotch bonnet peppers and habanero peppers. Till now you might have understood that there is such a little difference between the scotch bonnet peppers and habanero peppers. Though the habanero peppers are the most popular ones and more searched than scotch bonnet peppers. We are helping to answer your queries and questions. Do let us know in case you need any help. Happy growing and happy curiosity!
FAQ
What is the closest thing to a scotch bonnet pepper?
Jalapeno peppers, pequin pepper, serrano pepper, and habanero pepper are closely linked peppers looking similar to scratch bonnet pepper.
What is hotter scotch bonnet or jalapeno?
The habanero peppers are about 40 times hotter than the scotch bonnet peppers. Though both peppers have 100,000 to 350,000 SHU units.
What do you use scotch bonnets for?
Scotch bonnets are popularly used to make spicy sauces that will give smoky flavor and sweetness as well. The flavor is not that complex but the spice level is high. They are also to dress the meats or fish before the roasting.
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