Hot pepper 'Biquinho Black'

Hot pepper 'Biquinho Black' (Capsicum chinense), Offered by Les Gardiens - Ferme Alternative

The Biquinho Black is the rarest and most intriguing variety of this family of peppers. With its dark purple, almost black color , it brings a mysterious and sophisticated touch to your dishes. Its elegant drop shape and intense fruity, slightly sweet taste make it an exceptional pepper. Not very spicy ( 500 to 1,000 SHU ), it is ideal for those looking for a mild but aromatic pepper. Very productive , it offers an abundance of small black fruits that turn dark red when ripe , perfect for pickles, jams and exotic dishes.

Plant height: 60 to 80 cm (2 to 2.5 feet)
Spread: Medium
Quantity per packet: 15 to 20 seeds
Scoville (SHU): 500 to 1,000
Companion plants: Tomatoes, basil, coriander
Enemy plants: Fennel, beets

Cultivation method

1. 
   
   Indoor sowing: Sow seeds 8-10 weeks before the last frost , at a temperature of 25-30°C . Germination takes 10-20 days .



2. 
   
   Transplanting: When the plants have 4 to 6 true leaves , transplant them into larger pots before acclimating them to the outdoors.



3. 
   
   Planting in open ground: After the risk of frost, space the plants 40 to 50 cm apart, in rich, well-drained soil.



4. 
   
   Maintenance: Water regularly without excess, add compost and mulch to retain moisture.



5. 
   
   Harvest: About 90 to 120 days after sowing, harvest the fruits when they turn deep black, then dark red when fully ripe .

Use and special features

With its rare colour and intense flavour , Biquinho Black is perfect for jams, sweet and spicy sauces and exotic dishes . It also lends itself very well to fermentation and pickles , where its dark colour creates a magnificent contrast. Its sweet and slightly smoky taste makes it an excellent choice to accompany grilled meats or mature cheeses .

Recipe: Biquinho Black Pepper Jam

Ingredients :

• 1 cup Biquinho Black peppers, seeded and chopped



• 2 cups sugar



• 1 cup balsamic vinegar



• 1/2 cup water



• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions :

1. Mix all ingredients in a large saucepan.



2. Cook over medium-low heat until mixture thickens, about 45 minutes .



3. Let cool and store in sterilized jars.