Trinidad Moruga Scorpion is still one of the most extreme chili peppers you can grow – even though it is no longer the world’s hottest.
The variety comes from Trinidad and Tobago and belongs to Capsicum chinense. In tests at New Mexico State University, individual peppers have been measured at over 2 million Scoville Heat Units. That puts it far above ordinary habanero and jalapeño.
Is the Trinidad Moruga Scorpion the World’s Hottest Chili?
No. When this article was first written, it was one of the varieties getting huge attention for its extreme heat. Since then the record has changed hands several times. Guinness World Records currently lists Pepper X as the hottest verified chili, with an average of 2 693 000 SHU.
That doesn’t make the Moruga Scorpion any less brutal. On the contrary, it is still a true superhot and should be handled with respect.
How Hot Is the Trinidad Moruga Scorpion?
The heat varies between peppers and growing conditions. In NMSU’s tests, individual peppers reached over 2 million SHU. Compare that with an ordinary jalapeño, which often sits at a few thousand SHU.
The Scoville value is affected by genetics, ripeness, and growing conditions, so two peppers from the same plant can seem different in heat.
What Does It Taste Like?
Behind the heat there is a clearly fruity, almost tropical flavor. The problem is that the heat hits fast and can completely dominate. That is why this variety works best in very small amounts in sauces, rubs, and stews.
Growing Trinidad Moruga Scorpion
Moruga Scorpion needs a long season and plenty of warmth. Start early, give the plants lots of extra light, and let them develop in the warm. Once the risk of frost is over, they can be moved outside gradually after hardening off.
If you want the full growing guide, see our guide Growing Chili – From Seed to Harvest.
Handling Superhot Chili Safely
Feel free to use disposable gloves when you cut really hot chili, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and other sensitive areas. Wash your hands, knife, and cutting board thoroughly afterward. Also avoid standing with your face over a blender or pot when processing large amounts of superhot chili – capsaicin can irritate skin, eyes, and airways alike.
Eating a whole superhot as a challenge is not something we recommend. Heat at this level is more gimmick than cooking.
What Do You Use Trinidad Moruga Scorpion For?
- hot BBQ sauces
- chili oils and spice blends
- stews
- rub for meat
- dried chili powder
A little goes a very long way. Start with a small amount, taste, and build the heat step by step.
If you want to make a truly brutal sauce, try our hot chili sauce with Trinidad Moruga Scorpion.
Sources for the record and the heat level: Guinness World Records and the New Mexico State University Chile Pepper Institute.