SCOTCH BONNET CANDY

• Latitude: 35.2511
• Longitude: -75.6008
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Marina Scotch Bonnet Candy is a specific type of hot pepper derived from the Scotch Bonnet variety, known for its unique flavor profile and heat level. Here's a detailed description and specification tailored for the context within the United States:

Description:

• Appearance: The Marina Scotch Bonnet Candy typically boasts a distinctive shape resembling a traditional Scotch Bonnet pepper, which is somewhat squashed or ridged, reminiscent of a bonnie or tam-o’-shanter (a type of Scottish hat). It may vary in color from bright red, orange, or yellow, aligning with its ripeness stage.

• Flavor Profile: This pepper is particularly lauded for its sweetness contrasted by its intense heat. It delivers a fruity and slightly tangy flavor, which pairs the familiar fiery punch of the Scotch Bonnet with a unique candy-like sweetness. This makes it perfect for various culinary applications like sauces, salsas, or marinades, giving dishes a complex heat and a surprisingly sweet aftertaste.

• Heat Level: Scotch Bonnets typically rank between 100,000 to 350,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). The "candy" variant might lean towards the lower to mid-range of this spectrum but still provides a significant amount of heat.

Specification:

• Botanical Name: Capsicum chinense

• Common Name: Marina Scotch Bonnet Candy

• Scoville Rating: Approximately between 100,000 - 250,000 SHU

• Origin: Likely a hybrid or selectively bred variant from traditional Scotch Bonnet peppers, originating from the Caribbean.

• Size: Fruits commonly measure between 1.5 to 2.5 inches in diameter and around 1 to 2 inches in height.

• Cultivation Requirements:

  • Climate: Warm, temperate to tropical climate is ideal.
  • Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter.
  • Water: Regular watering with adequate drainage to avoid waterlogging.
  • Sunlight: Requires full sunlight, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
  • Growing Season: In the US, typically planted in the spring after the danger of frost has passed, through summer.

• Use Cases:

  • Culinary Applications: Commonly used in hot sauces, chutneys, salsas, and marinades. Its sweet undertone balances the heat, making it a distinctive choice for enhancing the flavor of both sweet and savory dishes.
  • Preservation: Can be dried, powdered, or pickled if needed.

• Nutritional Information:

  • High in vitamins A and C
  • Rich in antioxidants
  • Contains capsaicin, which has metabolic and pain-relief properties.

Regulatory and Availability Notes:

• Availability: Might be available through specialty farmers' markets, organic stores, and seed vendors online. Given its niche status, it may not be readily found in standard grocery stores.
• Regulation and Safety: Should be handled with care, particularly to avoid skin and eye irritation. Use gloves when handling and avoid direct contact with eyes.

This comprehensive overview should provide a good understanding of the Marina Scotch Bonnet Candy pepper within the US context.