Ghost Peppers

When it comes to heat, ghost peppers don’t play around—they bring the fire, and then some.

Ghost peppers, also known as Bhut Jolokia, are the bold heroes of the spice world. They’re notorious for their intense heat, but what’s really exciting is the complex flavor hiding behind all that fire. Think sweet, almost fruity notes that linger just long enough before that legendary kick takes over. It’s a bit of a wild ride—but trust me, it’s worth it. Ghost peppers don’t just bring heat for the sake of heat; they add depth and intrigue to every dish they touch.

Here’s where the science gets interesting: with a Scoville rating that can exceed one million units, ghost peppers pack a serious punch. The heat comes from capsaicin, which is what gives peppers their spice. When combined with fruits, herbs, and spices in my botanical hot sauces, ghost peppers create a perfect balance of bold, spicy intensity and nuanced flavors. And here's a little secret: that heat? It’s actually known to trigger endorphins, those feel-good hormones. So, if you can handle the fire, you’ll be rewarded with flavor and a little extra thrill!

"How do I choose flavors? I really don’t know. I started off with apricot because I like apricots. Then it becomes a game to see what other fruits would work. My wife likes strawberries, so I did some strawberry. It just comes to me."

HARVEY TANNENBAUM, ON PREFERENCES