Greendoor - Aji Cachucha – Chili Seeds

• Caribbean aroma: A unique, intensely fruity scent of apricot and tropical fruits.
• Mild & Gentle: Perfect for anyone who loves the typical Chinense aroma but cannot tolerate hot chillies.
• Distinctive shape: The small, flat-round fruits resemble a beret (Spanish: Cachucha).

Plant characteristics

The plant displays the typical, attractive growth habit of a Caribbean landrace:

• Growth habit: It grows compactly, bushy and rather low, giving it a very sturdy appearance.
• Height: Usually reaches a height of 40 to 60 cm, making it an ideal choice for growing in pots on balconies or windowsills.
• Leaves: Broad, oval and a rich dark green, typical of the species Capsicum chinense.
• Flowers: Small, whitish-green flowers that often appear in pairs in the leaf axils.

The fruit

The fruits of the Aji Cachucha are small visual works of art:

• Shape: They are flattened, heavily pleated and resemble small caps or flying saucers. They grow to about 3 to 5 cm wide.
• Colour change: The pods ripen from a light lime green to a deep, glossy red. They can be used at both stages, though the red fruits are sweeter.
• Texture: Crisp flesh with a fine texture that immediately releases its beguiling fragrance when cut open.

Flavour & heat level

The highlight of this variety is its aromatic profile without the tears.

• Heat level: 0 to 1 (very mild). Occasionally, a very slight, barely perceptible background heat may be present, but they are usually completely mild.
• Aroma: Intensely sweet, fruity and floral. It brings the taste of the Caribbean straight into the cooking pot without making the dish too spicy.

Uses

In Latin American cuisine, it forms the basis for many spice blends:

• Sofrito: Finely chopped with onions, garlic and herbs, it forms the aromatic base for stews, rice dishes (Arroz con Pollo) and beans.
• Fresh: Ideal for fresh salsas, salads or simply for snacking straight from the bush.
• Stuffed: Due to its shape, it is excellent for stuffing with cream cheese and serving as a snack.

Technical details

• Type: Capsicum chinense
• Contents: 10+ seeds
• Heat level: 0–1 (Almost no heat)
• Sowing: February to April (pre-sowing at 22–28 °C recommended)
• Harvest: Late summer to autumn
• Location: Warm, sunny and sheltered from the wind; ideal for growing in pots