Organic 'Kalosca Paprika' hot pepper
identification
description
Organic hot pepper 'Kalosca Paprika' (Capsicum annuum) from the seed company Gaia, a Hungarian variety with an intense taste
The 'Kalosca Paprika' pepper is a Hungarian heirloom variety , renowned for its rich aroma and moderate heat . Very similar to the 'Szegedi 179' paprika , it is distinguished by its thicker flesh (about ¾ inch wide ) and its length that can exceed 6 inches (15 cm). Its fruits ripen from green to dark red , developing an intense, fruity flavor , perfect for drying and grinding into powder to prepare an exceptional homemade paprika .
Did you know?
With an intensity of 100 to 1,000 on the Scoville scale (SHU) , the 'Kalosca Paprika' pepper is mild to slightly spicy , offering a subtle heat that enhances dishes without overpowering them. It is one of the key ingredients in Hungarian goulash and traditional spice blends .
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): 100 - 1,000
Cultivation method
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before planting out . Maintain a temperature of 27-31°C to ensure rapid and uniform 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 optimum production.
Harvesting and storage
Harvest peppers when they reach their deep red color , indicating full maturity . Regular picking helps to encourage continued production . Store them at 10-12°C , with a relative humidity of 95% , for optimal preservation.
Ideas for use in the garden and kitchen
- Dry it and grind it into powder for a rich and fragrant homemade paprika .
- Add it fresh or dried to stews and casseroles for depth of flavor.
- Mix it into marinades and sauces to enhance the flavors of your recipes.
- Grow it in a pot or in the ground , it adapts well to both types of cultivation.
