Q: Dear Dave,I am currently doing a science fair project on the effects of hot sauce on the tongue. I am trying to make my own "homemade" test, similar to the methods used by Wilbur Scoville, to use on subjects. I was wondering if you ("The Pope of Peppers") could offer some suggestions on proper yet simple methods of testing …
Growing Chiles from Seed
Q: Hey Dave,I was wondering… How far in advance do I need to plant seeds in the house, to have the plants ready to plant in my garden? I have some peppers that I would like to grow from seed, or at least give it a shot. I have heard that the best way to plant them is to barely …
Italian Sport Peppers
Q: Dear Dave,What are Italian sport peppers? Can banana peppers be substituted?–Alison Leszcz A: Alison:They are small peppers that are usually pickled. They are popular in the Midwest. Yes, banana peppers can be substituted.–Dave
How Much Habanero Powder Equivalent to One Habanero?
Q: Hi Dave,My question is as follows: When trying to use habanero powder in place of fresh habaneros in a recipe, how much powder would be equivalent to one habanero?–Mel A: Hello Mel:Some sources suggest that one teaspoon is the equivalent, but I suggest you start out with ½ teaspoon and then taste for heat. You can always add more …
Where to Get a Scoville Rating for Your Hot Sauce
Q: Dear Dave,Where or how can I get a Scoville rating number for my hot sauce? It is a bottled chipotle hot sauce and I am a part-time state licensed processor. Thanks, Ann A: Hello Ann:You must have the sauce tested by a laboratory that does High Performance Liquid Chromatography Testing, such as Analytical Food Laboratories, 972-336-0336.–Dave