Peppers

It is the hot seasoning peppers that give Caribbean cooking its distinctive flavour. There are many different varieties and names, including bird pepper, country pepper and seasoning pepper but it is the scotch bonnet pepper, with its distinctive aroma and flavour, which is the most favoured in Jamaica. It is named after its resemblance to a little bonnet. Care should be taken when handling all hot peppers: do not touch your face or eyes after working with them and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly. If you are unable to find hot peppers, chilli peppers may be used but for a more authentic flavour, use hot pepper sauce.