When most people are asked what is the hottest pepper they have tried, the answer is most likely the Orange Habanero. This is the hottest pepper sold in most grocery stores and can sell for upwards of $8.00/lb or more. The heat level of this pepper is right around 300,000 scoville units which is more than enough to spice up any meal. I usually buy a couple pounds when the price is right and dehydrate them to use all year long is salsas and other meals that need a little kick. The Orange Habanero plant is very easy to grow and can produce a large amount of peppers if started early in the growing season.
Fresh Orange Habaneros
These Habaneros were cut in half to facilitate the drying process.
These were dried at 140 degrees fahrenheit for 9 hours.
Keep the dried Habaneros in air tight containers or ziploc bags for use all year long.