Are you a spice lover looking to ignite your taste buds with the world’s hottest pepper? Look no further than the Carolina Reaper! This infamous chili pepper has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. With its intense heat and unique flavor profile, it’s the perfect addition to any dish that needs a bold kick. In this article, we’ll explore 20 fiery recipes that showcase the Carolina Reaper’s versatility and heat.
From classic dishes like hot sauce and BBQ ribs, to innovative creations like stuffed peppers and chocolate truffles, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to experiment with spicy foods, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you breathless.
Carolina Reaper Hot Sauce
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this fiery hot sauce recipe featuring the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper. This intense condiment is perfect for those who crave a bold and spicy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped Carolina Reaper peppers
– 1 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the chopped Carolina Reaper peppers, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a blender or food processor.
2. Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and the peppers are fully broken down.
3. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the hot sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Strain the hot sauce through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Carolina Reaper Chili
Experience the intense heat of the world’s hottest pepper with this Carolina Reaper Chili recipe. This bold and spicy dish is perfect for those who dare to try the hottest peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 Carolina Reaper peppers, seeded and chopped
– Optional: sour cream, shredded cheese, or crushed tortilla chips for topping
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chopped bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the can of diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
6. Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add the chopped Carolina Reaper peppers and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Carolina Reaper Salsa
Experience the intense heat of the Carolina Reaper pepper in this addictive salsa recipe. This spicy condiment is perfect for those who dare to challenge their taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 3-4 Carolina Reaper peppers, seeded and finely chopped (use gloves when handling)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Cooking Time: None required!
Carolina Reaper BBQ Ribs
Get ready to level up your BBQ game with this bold and spicy recipe that incorporates the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper. These ribs are smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce infused with the intense heat of the Reaper.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup Carolina Reaper-infused BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (optional).
4. Season the ribs with the dry rub mixture.
5. Place the ribs on the grill or smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until tender.
6. Brush the Carolina Reaper-infused BBQ sauce onto the ribs during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Carolina Reaper Chicken Wings
Take your taste buds on a thrill ride with this spicy Carolina Reaper chicken wing recipe! This mouth-numbing dish is perfect for those who dare to try the hottest peppers in the world.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Carolina Reaper pepper flakes (adjust to desired heat level)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or your preferred hot sauce)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together Carolina Reaper pepper flakes, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings to the bowl and toss until fully coated with the spicy mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange chicken wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and toss with Frank’s RedHot sauce (or your preferred hot sauce).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy the intense heat!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carolina Reaper Mac and Cheese
Get ready to turn up the heat with this creamy, spicy take on a comfort food classic. The Carolina Reaper’s intense flavor pairs surprisingly well with the rich pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon Carolina Reaper flakes (start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whole milk, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until smooth.
5. Add Carolina Reaper flakes (start with 1/4 teaspoon) and stir well.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt to taste.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carolina Reaper Stuffed Peppers
These Carolina Reaper stuffed peppers bring a bold and fiery twist to the classic recipe, perfect for those who dare to challenge their taste buds. The spicy kick from the world’s hottest pepper is balanced by the sweetness of the bell peppers and the creaminess of the cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 Carolina Reaper pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, grated cheese, chopped parsley, and Carolina Reaper pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carolina Reaper Deviled Eggs
Take your deviled eggs to the next level with the infamous Carolina Reaper pepper, adding a bold and fiery kick to this classic party favorite. This recipe is sure to please thrill-seekers and spice lovers alike!
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– Paprika, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the egg yolks and let them cool.
2. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, horseradish, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Add chopped Carolina Reaper peppers to the mixture and stir well.
4. Gently fold the yolk mixture into the cooled egg yolks.
5. Spoon the deviled eggs into halved egg whites or a serving dish.
6. Garnish with paprika and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including egg boiling time)
Carolina Reaper Beef Jerky
Experience the thrill of spicy snacking with this bold and tangy beef jerky infused with the infamous Carolina Reaper pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon Carolina Reaper pepper powder (or more to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 160°F (71°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, Carolina Reaper pepper powder, and garlic powder.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Carolina Reaper Guacamole
Take your guacamole game to the next level with this bold and spicy recipe featuring the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper. This devilish dip is perfect for those who dare to be different.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 Carolina Reaper pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocados until mostly smooth.
2. Add the red onion, jalapeño pepper, Carolina Reaper pepper, lime juice, and garlic to the bowl.
3. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Carolina Reaper Pizza
Add some heat to your pizza night with this Carolina Reaper-infused recipe. This spicy pie combines the world’s hottest pepper with rich flavors of cheese and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, diced (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough and spread with tomato sauce.
3. Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese, followed by chopped cilantro and diced Carolina Reaper peppers.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Brush the crust with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Carolina Reaper Tacos
Experience the intense heat of the Carolina Reaper pepper in this unique taco recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp Carolina Reaper pepper flakes
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
– Lime wedges
– Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and Carolina Reaper pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a slice or two of radish and a sprinkle of cilantro.
5. Serve with lime wedges and sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carolina Reaper Chocolate Truffles
These decadent truffles combine the intense heat of the Carolina Reaper pepper with the richness of dark chocolate, creating a unique and addictive treat. Perfect for those who dare to try something new and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Carolina Reaper pepper flakes (adjust to desired heat level)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream until smooth.
3. Add the Carolina Reaper pepper flakes and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. Roll into small balls (about 1 inch/2.5cm in diameter). Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe involves no cooking. Simply assemble and refrigerate.
Carolina Reaper Pickles
Get ready to turn up the heat with these Carolina Reaper pickles, packed with a spicy punch from the world’s hottest pepper. Perfect for adventurous eaters and pickle lovers alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, chopped (depending on desired heat level)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and chopped Carolina Reaper peppers.
2. In a separate saucepan, bring vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pour hot pickling liquid over cucumber mixture; let it sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours or refrigerate overnight.
5. Strain pickles and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (pickling liquid) + 24 hours (infusion time)
Carolina Reaper Bloody Mary
Carolina Reaper Bloody Mary Recipe
Summary: Spice up your brunch with this Carolina Reaper-infused Bloody Mary that will leave you sweating from the heat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vodka (or any spirit of choice)
– 1 cup tomato juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce
– 3 dashes Carolina Reaper pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garnishes: celery stalks, lime wedges, olives
Instructions:
1. Combine vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and Carolina Reaper pepper flakes in a pitcher or mixing glass.
2. Stir well until the flavors are fully incorporated.
3. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the heat of the Carolina Reaper to meld with the other ingredients.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with celery stalks, lime wedges, and olives.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply stir and chill.
Carolina Reaper Cornbread
This recipe adds a surprising kick to traditional cornbread by incorporating the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper. The heat is balanced by sweetness from the honey and a hint of smokiness from the chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and black pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add chopped Carolina Reaper peppers to the wet ingredients and mix well.
5. Combine dry and wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
6. Fold in minced chipotle peppers.
7. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carolina Reaper Fried Rice
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this bold and flavorful Carolina Reaper Fried Rice recipe. This spicy take on the classic Chinese dish combines the intense heat of the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper, with savory ingredients for a truly unique culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup Carolina Reaper peppers, chopped (use gloves when handling)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed veggies; cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add chopped Carolina Reaper peppers; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
5. Stir in cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
7. Garnish with green onions (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Carolina Reaper Meatballs
Experience the fiery flavor of the Carolina Reaper pepper in these mouth-numbing meatballs, perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix well until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Stir in chopped Carolina Reaper peppers.
5. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
6. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot with marinara sauce.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Carolina Reaper Hummus
This recipe adds a bold kick to traditional hummus by incorporating the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper. Perfect for those who crave an intense flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1-2 Carolina Reaper peppers, seeded and chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly add the olive oil, Carolina Reaper peppers, and water. Continue blending until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve with pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Carolina Reaper Ice Cream
Experience the thrill of the hottest pepper in the world with this unique and bold ice cream recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 Carolina Reaper pepper, seeded and chopped (start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, chopped Carolina Reaper pepper, and salt. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into an ice cream maker bowl. Discard the solids.
4. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until thickened.
5. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes (steeping time) + additional time for churning and freezing.
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 scorching hot recipes featuring the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper! From spicy sauces and condiments to bold BBQ dishes and decadent desserts, this list has something for every heat-seeking foodie. Try your hand at making Carolina Reaper Hot Sauce, Chili, Salsa, or BBQ Ribs, or take it up a notch with Reaper-stuffed Peppers, Chicken Wings, or Mac and Cheese. Even sweet treats like Chocolate Truffles and Ice Cream get the spicy treatment. With these recipes, you’ll be sure to bring the heat!
