India is one of the biggest consumers of chillies in the world. Not only have chillies been used in Indian food for decades, but India is also one of the biggest chilli exporters in the world. Dishes like ‘Laal Maas’, ‘Mirchi Bada’ and many others prove that chillies are indispensable to Indian food. With many chilli types in India, you will find whole chillies and chilli powder in almost every kitchen. From the Kashmiri red chilli to the bhut jolokia chilli, the chilli types in India are famous worldwide.
With India being the largest exporter of chillies in the world, the different chilli varieties in India are grown with great patience and care. With such careful cultivation, it is no wonder that Indian chilli types are one of the most in-demand chillies in the world. From the spiciest, most pungent red chillies to mild green chillies, one can find a diversity unlike any other in the chilli varieties in India. Not only do these chillies add a delicious flavour to any recipe, they also add a lovely natural colour to the dish. The taste, colour and aroma that these various Indian chilli types add will surely elevate your food.
Try these common chilli types in India to explore
1. Kashmiri chilli
One of the most popular types of red chilli in India, Kashmiri chilli is known for its deep red colour. As the name states, these chillies grow in Kashmir though such is their demand that these are one of the most commonly found chillies in India and its corners. Out of all popular types of red chilli in India, these are highly preferred by chefs as not only do they have a rich colour, but they are also not excessively hot. This fact makes them perfect to be used in a majority of recipes.
2. Bhut Jolokia
Known to be one of India’s spiciest chilli, Bhut Jolokia is also known as the Ghost Pepper. One can usually find this chilli being grown in the northeast areas of India, such as Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, etc. This chilli is instantly recognizable by its iconic shape and is found in both green and red chilli versions. It is mostly used to make pickles, fermented dishes, and chutneys, and is used very sparingly in curries, given its high spice level.
3. Byadgi chilli
Of all chilli types in India, this one is majorly grown in Karnataka in the Byadgi region, where it gets its name. A popular alternative for the spicier Kashmiri red chilli, this chilli is also famous for its rich red colour but is much milder in its spice level. One of the best chilli varieties in India, it is acclaimed to preserve its natural nutrients for a long time, making consuming it good for your health.
4. Guntur chilli
Another variety of popular types of red chilli in India, this version is known as being one of the hottest red chillies in India. This chilli gets its name from Guntur, an area in Andhra Pradesh known as one of the largest chilli-growing areas in India and where this specific chilli is grown. Heavily used in Andhra cuisine, it is known for being pungent and is one of the reasons behind the distinct spiciness of Andhra recipes.
5. Pusa jwala chilli
Belonging to popular green chilli types in India, it is also called the ‘finger hot pepper.’ It is due to the fact that this chilli is a thin, spicy chilli best used cautiously in curries and other recipes. It is also one of the chillies in India used as a popular garnish for dishes like vada pav, samosas, etc. Although the name might not be too regular, it is a common ingredient in Indian kitchens.
6. Gundu chilli
Grown in Tamil Nadu, these chillies are small and round in size. They are known for their distinct flavour and the taste they lend to recipes. They are mostly used in Southern recipes such as Sambhar, chutneys, etc.
7. Dhani chilli
Also called the ‘bird’s eye chilli’ popularly and ‘kanthari’ in Kerala, it is considered one of India’s spiciest chilli. It is called the ‘bird’s eye chilli’ for its tiny size. But, although it is maybe one of the smallest chillies grown in India, it is also one of the spiciest and most pungent types of chilli grown in India. Grown in the northeastern and southern parts of India, this chilli will be one of the spiciest chillies you try.
8. Bhavnagri chilli
This chilli is one of the best chilli varieties in India, especially for people who want to explore milder chilli types. It is usually used for pickles, stuffed chilli pakoras, and similar recipes. As these green chillies are bigger, they are also perfect for stuffed recipes.