Description

Species: High yield, Mexican, Pubescens, Rare, Upper Mid Heat

Belonging to the Pubescens species, the Yellow Rocoto is characterised by its hairy stems and leaves. “Pubescens,” derived from Latin, signifies puberty or hairiness, aptly describing this plant’s hairy foliage. Its blue-violet flowers and black seeds further distinguish it, while its resilience to cold temperatures of 4-21 degrees Celsius underscores its adaptability.

Taste Profile

With a fresh, juicy, and firm texture, the Yellow Rocoto offers a delightful flavour akin to crisp apples. Its thick walls house a unique combination of heat and flavour, making it ideal for stuffing, pickling, sauces, or as a dinner garnish. For a closer sensory journey, check out our chilli tasting video below.

Heat Level

With a heat level classified as upper medium, the Yellow Rocoto delivers an initial throat burn followed by a gradual spread of warmth throughout the mouth, owing to its higher dihydrocapsaicin content compared to capsaicin. It is rated around 30,000 to 250,000 SHU on the Scoville scale.

Texture and Appearance

The pods of the Yellow Rocoto exhibit a sturdy, thick-walled construction, measuring 4 cm in both height and width. Their vibrant yellow hue and black seeds complement the plant’s overall appearance, while their firm texture adds a satisfying crunch to dishes.

Size of Plant

Reaching heights of up to four meters and boasting a lifespan of up to 15 years, the Yellow Rocoto evolves into a tree-like structure over time, making it a striking addition to any garden or landscape.

Culinary Uses

The Yellow Rocoto’s versatile nature lends itself well to various culinary applications. Whether stuffed, pickled, made into a paste or sauce, or simply sprinkled over dishes, its fresh and juicy flavour enhances the taste of any meal.

Growing and Care

Thriving in diverse climates, the Yellow Rocoto requires minimal maintenance and is more resistant to cold temperatures compared to other chilli species. With optimal care and suitable growing conditions, it flourishes into a bountiful producer of vibrant yellow pods, enriching both gardens and cuisines alike.

Fun Facts

• The Rocoto Pepper is unique for its ability to withstand cooler temperatures compared to other pepper varieties.
• In traditional Peruvian cuisine, Rocoto Peppers are a key ingredient in the famous Rocoto Relleno, a dish where the peppers are stuffed with meat, cheese, and spices.