are hotter than jalapeno peppers but milder than habanero peppers. (See References
Apache peppers are a member of the Capsicum annuum family of peppers. There are two recognized varieties of the Apache pepper plant, and both plants thrive in patio pots and window sills. While Apache peppers do well outdoors, they require warm temperatures and direct sunlight. If conditions are kept optimal, Apache peppers can also be grown indoors year-round as an edible ornamental fruit.
Types
The dwarf variety of Apache pepper grows to reach nearly 18 inches in height, producing a bush-like plant with oval, non-serrated edged leaves. Dwarf Apache pepper plants produce bright red wrinkly fruits when ripe. The non-dwarf variety of the Apache pepper grows to about the same height, but produces bright red, wrinkly peppers of up to 3 inches. Other members in this pepper family include sweet banana, cayenne, ancho and jalapeno.
Health Benefits
The health benefits of Apache peppers are in the the high amounts of vitamins. Apache peppers are extremely high in vitamin C, which reduces signs of aging, prevents infection and assists the body in absorbing iron. The high vitamin A amounts improves eye sight, increases the body's resistance to respiratory infections and is good for hair, skin and teeth. Consuming peppers regularly boosts the immune system, reduces cholesterol and improves heart health.
Scoville Units (Pepper Heat)
Cayenne peppers range between 30,000 and 50,000 scoville units of heat. (See References 3)
Most people eat peppers for two reasons: flavor and heat. While common bell peppers are crispy and sweet, Apache peppers are tender and hot. The heat from peppers is determined by the level of capsaicin, which is what produces the "pain" sensation when eating hot peppers. Pepper heat is measured in Scoville units, named after Wilber Scoville who invented the process of determining the heat of various types of peppers in 1902. Apache peppers are a very hot pepper that can reach up to 80,000 Scoville units in heat.
Considerations
You can wear rubber gloves to handle extremely hot raw peppers to prevent pepper burn.
Apache peppers can be used in cooking, baking and canning and are most often used in sauces and Mexican cuisine. Apache peppers can also be dried, roasted or frozen to be used at a later date. However, it is important to remember that the capsaicin present in all parts of the pepper can cause pain and burning when in direct contact with skin and eyes. Handle peppers with caution, and wash hands thoroughly before touching your eyes afterwards.
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