Scoville Heat Units: 15,000-30,000 SHU The Lemon Drop pepper is a type of chili pepper known for its bright yellow color and lemon-like flavor. It is considered to be a relatively hot pepper, with a Scoville rating of around 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville heat units (SHU), making it hotter than a jalapeno pepper but less hot than a cayenne pepper. The Lemon Drop pepper is small and elongated, typically measuring around 2-3 inches in length and 1/4 inch in width. They have a glossy exterior that is usually bright yellow when fully ripe. The flesh of the pepper is also yellow and has a distinct, citrusy aroma and a complex flavor that is described as being both spicy and lemony. This bright yellow, citrus-flavored chili is also known as “Kellu Uchu” in Peru, where it originated. Its unique lemon taste has caught the attention of those who love the citrus flavor of habanero but just can’t quite handle the intense heat. The Lemon Drop is a fantastic substitute. Although the heat is intense, it does not linger. Instead, it leaves behind the nice, lemony flavor. The Lemon Drop can be used in just about any type of dish, especially soups and stir-fries, or the chiles can be dried to grind into a hot powdered spice. They are not often found in stores, but may sometimes be found at farmer’s markets. Many people also grow them at home, often from seeds purchased on the internet. These peppers are commonly used in salsas, sauces, marinades and soups to add a lemony kick to dishes. They can also be used to make hot sauce and can be pickled or eaten fresh. They are also used in a variety of international cuisine such as Peruvian, Ecuadorian and Mexican dishes.
