Manzano Pepper

Manzano peppers, also called rocoto or apple peppers, are a distinctive chili variety native to the Andean highlands of Peru and Bolivia. The pepper is round and apple-shaped, hence the name, and it is notably different from most hot peppers in that it has black seeds and purple flowers. Colors range from yellow to orange to deep red. In flavor, manzano peppers are fruity and intensely fragrant, with a heat level similar to a habanero. That combination of floral fruitiness and real fire makes them excellent in glazes, salsas, butters, and pickles where you want heat with depth. Look for them in Latin American specialty markets.