The mildest chili pepper is the bell pepper. It is widely known for its mild and sweet flavor, making it a popular choice for those who prefer less heat in their dishes. However, if you are looking for even milder options, there are several dried chiles that have a lower heat level than the bell pepper.
One of the mildest dried chiles is the Aji Paprika, which ranges from 120 to 140 SHU (Scoville Heat Units). This Chile is not commonly used for its heat, but rather for its smoky and sweet flavor. It adds a subtle kick to dishes without overwhelming the taste buds.
Another mild dried chile is the Choricero, which falls within the range of 175 to 300 SHU. This pepper is commonly used in Spanish cuisine for its rich and slightly sweet flavor. It is often used in the preparation of traditional sauces and stews.
The Nora chili pepper is another option with a mild heat level, ranging from 500 to 1,000 SHU. It is a popular ingredient in Spanish cooking, particularly in the region of Catalonia. The Nora pepper is often used in the preparation of Romesco sauce, which is known for its mild and nutty flavor.
Moving up the heat scale slightly, we have the Anaheim chili pepper, which also ranges from 500 to 1,000 SHU. This pepper is commonly used in Mexican cuisine and is known for its mild heat and slightly sweet taste. It is often used in salsas, sauces, and stuffing recipes.
Lastly, the Aji Panca chili pepper falls within the range of 500 to 1,500 SHU. This pepper is commonly used in Peruvian cuisine and is known for its fruity and smoky flavor. It adds a mild heat to dishes and is often used in marinades, sauces, and soups.
In my personal experience, I have used these mild chiles in various dishes to add flavor and a subtle level of heat. They are great options for those who enjoy a milder spice level or for introducing heat to dishes without overpowering the other flavors. Whether you’re cooking Mexican, Spanish, or Peruvian cuisine, these mild chiles can be a versatile addition to your pantry.
To summarize, the mildest chili pepper is the bell pepper. However, if you’re looking for dried chiles with a milder heat level, options like Aji Paprika, Choricero, Nora, Anaheim, and Aji Panca are excellent choices. They offer a range of flavors and mild heat that can enhance your dishes without being too spicy.
