Q: Hi Dave,I am looking to can coconut milk. The ingredients are very simple—it has coconut extract, water, and a preservative—and I can provide the fresh brown coconuts. Is there a company who can co-pack this product for me, preferably in Florida? Thank you. A: Hello Wwung:I would recommend Charlie Schandelmayer of Sauce Crafters, near West Palm Beach. Call him …
Preserving Pepper Paste in Tanzania
Q: Hi Dave,My recipe for a pepper paste contains scotch bonnet, ginger, garlic, salt and vinegar. I want to bottle it for sale here in Tanzania. To preserve it, could I hot water bathe it or do I need to pressure-cook it to prolong shelf life?Thanks and good luck, Judy McIntosh A: Hello Judy:Since vinegar is a preservative, a boiling …
Homemade Heat Test
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 …
Malagueta vs. Melegueta
Q: Hi Dave,I recently received seeds from one of my seed wholesalers for this increasingly popular variety. They spelled it Malagueta, while your book Peppers of the World spells it Melegueta. Your web site search engine brings up references to Malagueta, but none to Melegueta. Your thoughts?Thanks, Dave Anderson A: Hello Dave:For the Capsicum, the correct spelling is "Malagueta," and we …
Chiltepin, Sometimes Called Birdseye
Q: Sir,I am looking for a pepper that is round, about the size of a pencil eraser. My father always called these "Birdseye," but when I went to your page and saw the picture they didn’t look anything alike. These are real hot peppers and I would like to know where I can buy the seed for my garden.Thanks, Steve …