What is a Peter Pepper?
This very interesting little chili makes a great conversation piece in the garden or in the kitchen due to its distinctively phallic shape, hence its name. It grows to about 3-4 inches long and 1-1.5 inches wide on average, and matures to a bright orange or red color. Origins aren’t completely known, but they seem to be originally from Texas and Louisiana, though the pods are grown commercially and seeds can be obtained through private companies. They are also grown in Mexico and by home gardeners all over the world. It is also often referred to as the penis pepper based on their unusual shape. They were once considered more of an ornamental pepper, though over the years have been adopted by cooks for a large variety of recipes. They are great for salsas!
Cooking with Peter Peppers
Peter peppers are a great option for cooking if you’re looking for a bit of heat with your meal. You just have to get past the slight giggle phase and keep them away from sensitive people. As they can be about as hot as a serrano pepper, they’re great for making sauces and hot sauces, and very good for a nice spicy salsa. Try them for salsa recipes, though you can also use them in every day cooking, as part of your mirepoix or Cajun Holy Trinity for making soups, stews, gumbos and more. The peppers can easily be frozen whole or chopped and then frozen for using throughout the year.
Where Can I Buy Peter Pepper Seeds?
I have used them in many salsas, sauces and hot sauces, though they are also ideal for dehydrating. Because of their vibrant color and good level of heat, they make great spicy chili flakes and chili powders, which can be used to season up any number of your favorite dishes and recipes. Got any questions? Contact me anytime. I’m happy to help.
Learn About These Other Medium-Hot Chili Peppers
NOTE: This post was updated on 6/2/20 to include new information. It was originally published on 9/23/13.
