Capsicum annuum
Origin: Nicaragua
Improvement status: Cultivar
Seeds per packet: ~30
Germination tested 12/2021: 95%
Life cycle: Annual
'Criolla de Cocina' is a unique chiltoma pepper from Nicaragua. It is a sweet pepper characterized by a strong flavor, thin walls, and wrinkled appearance (like an oversized habañero). These types of peppers are used in Nicaragua for the classic sauce known as salsa criolla campesina, which combines thinly sliced onions and peppers with tomatoes, salt, sugar, and vinegar, and is served with grilled or fried fish or chicken throughout Nicaragua. You won't find another pepper like this one.
Dusty trialed this variety in 2019 in central Minnesota. In the relatively short season here, 'Criolla' produced early and often, and was great to have on hand for all kinds of cooking! Very crisp and firm, great flavor, and lasted a while in the fridge too. Two thumbs up!
These seeds were grown by Dusty Hinz in Farmington, Minnesota, at the farm of legendary Minnesota organic farmer, Jeff Adelman, aka "The Herb Man".
GROWING TIPS: Start seeds indoors in March. After danger of frost transplant to garden with 14-18 inches between plants.
