Spice | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Ghost Chily

Capsicum chinense 'Bhut Jolokia' Allergen-Free
Ghost Chily

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Indian|Southeast Asian
  • Seasonality Late Summer|Early Fall
  • Source Capsicum chinense plant

What Is Ghost Chily?

An extremely pungent chili pepper, originating from Northeast India, known for its intense heat and fruity undertones.

What Does Ghost Chily Taste Like?

Ghost Chily has a extremely pungent, fruity, smoky (subtle) taste with fruity, pungent, earthy aromas.

Taste
Extremely pungent, Fruity, Smoky (subtle)
Texture
Crisp (fresh), Leathery (dried)
Aroma
Fruity, Pungent, Earthy
Acidity
Low

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 5g
Calories40 kcal
Total Fat0.4 g
Saturated Fat0.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.9 g
Total Carbohydrate8.8 g
Dietary Fiber1.5 g
Total Sugars5.3 g
Calcium14 mg
Iron0.6 mg
Potassium322 mg

Chef’s Secret

Toasting dried ghost chilies briefly before grinding can unlock deeper, smokier flavors, but be mindful of airborne capsaicin.

Ghost Chily Substitutes & Ratios

The best substitute for Ghost Chily is Habanero Pepper, used at a 2:1 (Habanero to Ghost) ratio. Similar fruity notes and high heat, but significantly less potent.

Substitutes for Ghost Chily with ratios
Substitute Ratio Best for
Habanero Pepper Best 2:1 (Habanero to Ghost) Similar fruity notes and high heat, but significantly less potent.
Scotch Bonnet Pepper 2:1 (Scotch Bonnet to Ghost) Offers comparable heat and tropical fruitiness, common in Caribbean cuisine.
Trinidad Scorpion Pepper 1:1 Even hotter than ghost chili, for those seeking more extreme heat.
Pure Capsaicin Extract Vary by concentration For pure heat without the chili flavor, use sparingly and with extreme caution.

How to Choose & Store Ghost Chily

  1. Look for firm, unblemished peppers.
  2. Handle with gloves and caution.

What Pairs Well With Ghost Chily?

  • Curry
  • Stir-fries
  • Hot sauce
  • Stews
  • Chili oil
  • Fruit salsa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Ghost Chily taste like?

Extremely pungent, Fruity, Smoky (subtle) Fruity, Pungent, Earthy

What is a good substitute for Ghost Chily?

The best substitute is Habanero Pepper (2:1 (Habanero to Ghost)). Similar fruity notes and high heat, but significantly less potent.

How do you choose and store Ghost Chily?

Look for firm, unblemished peppers. Handle with gloves and caution.

Related Spice Ingredients

Need a substitute for Ghost Chily right now, or a recipe that uses it? Ask Sous, your AI sous-chef.