Hot pepper 'Hot Padron' organic
identification
description
Organic 'Hot Padron' hot pepper ( Capsicum annuum ) from the seed company Gaia, a Spanish tradition with surprising flavors
The 'Hot Padron' pepper is a Spanish heirloom variety , native to the Padron region of Galicia . Harvested young, when it reaches the size of an olive , it is traditionally fried whole in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt to create one of Spain's most popular tapas. Its special feature? Every second pod is spicy , offering a unique culinary experience, nicknamed the "Spanish roulette" . To avoid too much intensity, it is recommended to pick the fruits small , because the more they ripen, the hotter they become.
Did you know?
With an intensity of 500 to 2,500 Scoville Units (SHU) , the 'Hot Padron' pepper ranges from mild to moderately hot , making each tasting unpredictable and fun .
Spread: Compact and productive port
Plant height: 50 to 80 cm
Quantity per pack: ± 25 seeds
Companion plants: Alliums, basil, tomato, spinach, oregano, marjoram, nasturtium, marigold
Enemy plants: Beans, brassicas, fennel
Scoville Scale (SHU): 500 - 2,500
Cultivation method
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before planting out . Maintain a temperature of 27-31°C for fast and even germination (7-21 days). Harden off plants gradually to 18-19°C before transplanting into the ground or pots. Plant 0.5 cm (1/4") deep , spacing plants 30-45 cm (12-18") apart and rows 60-75 cm (24-30") apart. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil for optimal development.
Harvesting and storage
Harvest chillies when they are young and green for a milder flavour and a "roulette" effect. Riper fruits still become hot . Regular picking will encourage continued production . Store at 10-12°C , with 95% relative humidity , for optimum storage.
Ideas for use in the garden and kitchen
- Fry them whole in olive oil and serve as tapas.
- Add them to salads or vegetable dishes for a Spanish touch.
- Dry them and grind them into powder for a unique seasoning.
- Grow them in pots for an accessible harvest on a balcony or terrace.
