Forktionary

Piri

Capsicum frutescens (for Piri-piri pepper) Spice, Chili Pepper

Piri Spice, Chili Pepper

At a Glance

  • Category Spice, Chili Pepper

The Forktionary Angle

"Explore the journey of the Piri-piri pepper from its African origins to its global culinary impact, particularly in Portuguese and African dishes."

Definition

Refers to Piri-piri, a small, fiery chili pepper (Capsicum frutescens) originating from Africa, renowned for its intense heat and fruity undertones.

Science: Scoville Heat Units 50,000-100,000 SHU
Storage: Dried Shelf Life Up to 2-3 years (airtight container)
Usage: Global Spread Key in African, Portuguese, Brazilian cuisine

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Piri are:

Hot Spicy Fruity Earthy

Chef’s Secret

Toasting dried Piri peppers lightly in a dry pan before grinding or rehydrating enhances their smoky depth and releases more volatile oils, intensifying the flavor and heat.

Best Substitutes

African Bird's Eye Chili

Ratio 1:1

Thai Chili

slightly different profile
Ratio 1:1

Cayenne Pepper

less fruity
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Can be found fresh, dried, or as a sauce. When buying fresh, look for bright, firm peppers. Handle with gloves.

Culinary Pairings

Chicken Seafood Rice Vegetables Marinades Sauces Mango Lime

Recipes Using Piri

African Piri Piri Kabobs image
Time To Make Wild Game African Preparation

African Piri Piri Kabobs

Fire up your grill for these flavorful African Piri Piri Kabobs! Tender sweet potatoes and your choice of venison or beef are marinated in a fiery piri-piri spice blend, then grilled to perfection. This recipe delivers a delicious blend of sweet and spicy flavors, perfect for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner. Get ready for an explosion of taste!

See Complete Recipe
Bifana Portuguese Pork Cutlets image 112
Preparation Equipment Portuguese 1 Day Or More

Bifana Portuguese Pork Cutlets

Crave the taste of Lisbon? This Bifana recipe delivers authentic Portuguese pork cutlets, a beloved snack enjoyed throughout Portugal and its diaspora. Learn how to make these tender, flavorful pork cutlets marinated in a vibrant blend of wine, spices, and piri-piri for a fiery kick. Perfect for a quick meal or a flavorful appetizer, this recipe is easy to follow and produces restaurant-quality results.

See Complete Recipe
Bacalhau Salt Cod With Chickpeas image
Portuguese 1 Day Or More Main Ingredient Occasion

Bacalhau Salt Cod With Chickpeas

Experience the authentic flavors of Portugal with this hearty Bacalhau (salt cod) and chickpea stew! Perfect for a warm luncheon or brunch, this simple yet satisfying dish is surprisingly quick to assemble once the salt cod is prepared (allowing 24-48 hours for soaking). The tender salt cod flakes mingle beautifully with chickpeas, vibrant herbs, and a hint of piri-piri (or red pepper flakes for a fiery kick). Serve warm or at room temperature, paired perfectly with a glass of robust red wine. This recipe is a taste of tradition, ready to be enjoyed!

See Complete Recipe