Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 bold and delicious recipes featuring the infamous scorching hot pepper, the Scotch Bonnet. This Caribbean staple adds a depth of flavor and a kick of heat to any dish it touches. From jerk chicken and BBQ wings to coconut curry and chili chocolate brownies, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the versatility of the Scotch Bonnet in a variety of recipes that are sure to spice up your cooking routine.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for new inspiration, these spicy recipes are perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors and a little bit of heat in their meals.
Jerk Chicken with Scotch Bonnet Marinade
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this classic Jerk Chicken recipe, infused with the spicy kick of Scotch Bonnet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1/4 cup Scotch Bonnet pepper marinade (see below)
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Scotch Bonnet Pepper Marinade:
– 2 Scotch Bonnet peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine Scotch Bonnet peppers, olive oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Place chicken in a shallow dish and pour marinade over. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and grill or bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Sprinkle jerk seasoning and garlic powder to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Scotch Bonnet Hot Sauce
Add a Caribbean kick to your meals with this spicy Scotch Bonnet hot sauce recipe. This condiment is perfect for adding heat and flavor to dishes like jerk chicken, seafood, and rice bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chopped scotch bonnet peppers
– 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine scotch bonnet peppers, onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Heat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in white vinegar.
5. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Caribbean Pepper Shrimp with Scotch Bonnet
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this spicy shrimp dish, featuring the infamous Scotch Bonnet pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 Scotch Bonnet peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped Scotch Bonnet peppers and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and cumin; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Scotch Bonnet Mango Salsa
Add a Caribbean twist to your snack game with this sweet and spicy salsa!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, scotch bonnet peppers, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Stir in cilantro leaves and lime juice.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Scotch Bonnet Pineapple Glazed Ribs
Elevate your barbecue game with this sweet and spicy twist on classic ribs! This recipe combines the tanginess of pineapple with the bold flavor of Scotch bonnet peppers to create a truly unique glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Scotch bonnet pepper jam (or substitute with hot sauce)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, Scotch bonnet pepper jam, soy sauce, honey, and garlic powder.
3. Remove ribs from packaging and place on grill. Brush glaze evenly over both sides of the ribs.
4. Close lid and cook for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Flip ribs and repeat process for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked to desired level.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-24 minutes
Fiery Scotch Bonnet BBQ Wings
Add a Caribbean twist to your game-day gatherings with these spicy and savory wings, infused with the heat of scotch bonnet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup scotch bonnet pepper sauce (adjust to desired level of heat)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together scotch bonnet pepper sauce, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy the fiesta!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Scotch Bonnet Coconut Curry
A vibrant and aromatic curry that combines the heat of Scotch Bonnet peppers with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 Scotch Bonnet peppers, chopped (use gloves when handling)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and Scotch Bonnet peppers; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the coconut milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Jamaican Escovitch Fish with Scotch Bonnet
A classic Jamaican dish that combines the flavors of escovitch (a spicy sauce) and scotch bonnet peppers, this recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. The result is a flavorful and aromatic fish dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia)
– 1/2 cup scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
– 1/4 cup onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp escovitch sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
3. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped scotch bonnet peppers, onions, garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add the escovitch sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Return the fish to the skillet and spoon some of the escovitch sauce over each piece.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Scotch Bonnet Garlic Butter Lobster
Experience the sweet and spicy fusion of Caribbean flavors with this succulent lobster dish, featuring Scotch bonnet peppers and a hint of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster tail, thawed
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and chopped Scotch bonnet peppers.
3. Place the lobster tail on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the lobster meat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the lobster is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Scotch Bonnet Guacamole
Add a Caribbean twist to your guacamole game with this Spicy Scotch Bonnet recipe! This flavorful dip combines the creamy richness of avocados with the bold heat of scotch bonnets.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocados until mostly smooth.
3. Add lime juice, cilantro, Scotch bonnet peppers, and garlic to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy dip that’s ready in no time.
Scotch Bonnet Honey Glazed Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and spicy glazed salmon dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Scotch bonnet honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Scotch bonnet honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caribbean Beef Patties with Scotch Bonnet
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with these savory beef patties, infused with the fiery heat of scotch bonnet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 Scotch Bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or deep fryer to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Scotch Bonnet pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until the mixture is sticky and holds together.
4. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into patties.
5. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Scotch Bonnet Lime Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your grilling game with this Caribbean-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp, tangy lime juice, and a hint of Scotch bonnet pepper. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced Scotch bonnet pepper (or substitute with a spicy pepper of your choice)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, Scotch bonnet pepper, and garlic.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Spicy Scotch Bonnet Cornbread
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this spicy cornbread recipe, infused with the heat of scotch bonnet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 scotch bonnet peppers, finely chopped (use gloves when handling)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add chopped scotch bonnet peppers to the wet ingredients and stir well.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Scotch Bonnet Pickled Vegetables
This recipe showcases the bold flavor of Scotch bonnet peppers, a staple in Caribbean cuisine. By pickling a variety of vegetables with these fiery peppers, you’ll create a tangy and addictive condiment perfect for snacking or elevating dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Scotch bonnet peppers, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1/2 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced Scotch bonnet peppers and mixed vegetables.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, water, salt, and black pepper to create the pickling liquid.
3. Pour the pickling liquid over the vegetable mixture, ensuring all pieces are coated.
4. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Store the pickled vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 24 hours
Fiery Scotch Bonnet Jerk Pork
Get ready for a Caribbean-inspired flavor explosion with this spicy jerk pork recipe! This bold and aromatic dish is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, bone-in
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, and ginger.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Scotch Bonnet Chili Chocolate Brownies
A spicy twist on classic brownies, these Scotch Bonnet Chili Chocolate Brownies combine the warmth of chili peppers with the richness of dark chocolate and a hint of coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (from Scotch Bonnet peppers)
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup brewed coffee
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, melt butter and chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler. Stir until smooth.
4. Add brewed coffee, egg, and vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture. Whisk until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in cayenne pepper.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Scotch Bonnet Infused Rum Cocktail
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this refreshing cocktail infused with the spicy kick of Scotch Bonnet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz dark rum
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– 1 Scotch Bonnet pepper, seeded and chopped
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. Heat over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the Scotch Bonnet pepper to infuse its flavor into the mixture.
3. Strain the infusion through a fine-mesh sieve into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Serve: Immediately and enjoy!
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 bold and spicy recipes featuring the infamous Scotch Bonnet pepper! From jerk chicken and hot sauce to Caribbean-inspired shrimp and lobster dishes, there’s something for every palate. Add a kick to your snack game with spicy mango salsa or guacamole, or indulge in sweet and heat-filled treats like pineapple glazed ribs and chili chocolate brownies. Whether you’re a seasoned spice lover or just looking to level up your flavor game, these recipes are sure to deliver.