Teja Chilli

Unlike modern, specific cross-breeds, the Teja chilli doesn't have a single inventor but is a celebrated heirloom variety from India. Its story is woven into the rich tapestry of Indian agriculture. The Teja, also known as the S17, is a special selection of Capsicum annuum that was developed and perfected over generations by farmers in the southern states of India, particularly in and around Guntur in Andhra Pradesh, a region famously known as the chilli capital of the country. It was specifically cultivated for its intense heat, vibrant colour, and robust qualities, making it a true star of the spice trade.

The Teja chilli is a real stunner! Imagine a slender, sleek pepper, typically about 6 to 8 cm in length, with smooth, glossy skin. It grows to a pointed tip, looking like a little red rocket ready to launch a payload of flavour. When fresh, it has a vibrant green hue, but it’s most famous for its mature form: a breathtakingly deep, rich, and uniform red.

But don't let its good looks fool you into thinking it's mild-mannered! The Teja is renowned for its pungent and fiery heat. On the Scoville Heat Scale, it packs a serious punch, typically ranging from 50,000 to 70,000 SHU. This places it firmly in the hot category, delivering a clean, sharp, and lingering burn. The flavour profile is intensely spicy with smoky undertones, making it less about subtle sweetness and more about delivering pure, unadulterated heat.

In the kitchen, the Teja is the undisputed king of spice. It's most commonly used in its dried form, either whole or ground into a brilliantly coloured powder. It's the secret weapon in countless South Indian dishes, from fiery curries and lentil soups (sambar) to sizzling stir-fries. Its low moisture content and thick skin make it perfect for drying and for creating intensely flavourful and aromatic chilli oils and infused spirits. If you're looking to make a hot sauce that delivers a straightforward, powerful kick, the Teja is your perfect companion.

The Teja chilli grows on a sturdy and compact plant belonging to the Capsicum annuum species. It's a relatively small, bushy plant, typically reaching a height of about 60 to 90 cm. It features vibrant green leaves and a resilient stem structure, designed to support a prolific number of peppers. The plants are well-suited to the hot and humid climates of Southern India, where they thrive under the sun, developing their signature intense heat.

Here’s a unique tidbit for you: the Teja chilli is a global celebrity in the world of spices! Due to its high heat, deep red colour, and excellent quality, it is one of the most exported chillies from India. It's highly sought after in international markets, especially across Asia and Europe, not just for cooking but also as a natural colouring agent. So, the next time you see a vibrant red spice blend or a fiery dish on a menu far from India, there's a good chance the mighty Teja chilli is the secret star of the show!

All plants are grown on our farm in Norfolk, UK and are grown in an open pollinated area.