Aji Charapita Orange Chili

Experience the Aji Charapita – a legendary gastronomic treasure from the tropical rainforest of the Peruvian Amazon. This exceptional orange chili grows on small, wild bushes and is harvested by indigenous peoples during traditional foraging trips. Even in Inca times, this rare chili was coveted and prized – a tradition that continues to this day.

The Aji Charapita is considered the most expensive chili in the world. The price per kilogram for fresh pods can reach up to €23,000, depending on the country and freshness. Dried, this small yellow chili resembles a raisin, but conceals extraordinary potency. It is not without reason that it bears the poetic nickname "the caviar of chilies"—for its tiny size, its price, and its extreme rarity.

On the Scoville scale, the Aji Charapita is one of the most explosive chilies, with an intensity of 100,000 to 150,000 Scoville units. On our simplified scale, it receives 10 out of 10 points – its heat is powerful and intense, reserved for experienced chili lovers. But this chili is far more than just heat: it develops an exceptional flavor profile with exotic fruits like mango and pineapple, citrus notes of bitter and blood orange, and a subtle floral nuance.

Its use requires respect and restraint. Due to its potency, we recommend using it sparingly. It harmonizes perfectly with seafood – for ceviche, shrimp tartare, octopus salad, or seared tuna. It adds an explosive kick to guacamole or mayonnaise with a squeeze of lime.

Aji charapita peppers are a favorite in Peruvian cuisine, fusion cuisine, and South American dishes in general. They flavor citrus iniagrettes, sauces, chutneys, marinades, and oils, complementing everything from roasted vegetables to grilled meats. Surprisingly, in desserts, they pair beautifully with citrus fruits, flambéed or roasted exotic fruits, and dark chocolate. You can even make a syrup from them for cocktails or flavored rum.

Exclusively available at the Eterna Concept Store in Stäfa on Lake Zurich. This rare Aji Charapita is more than just a spice – it's a culinary gem, a piece of Peruvian history, and pure exclusivity. An exceptional gift for chili collectors and adventurous gourmets.