Origin of the Spice and History

The chilli plant is native to South and Central America. There are reports that claim the use of chilli as far back as 7500 BC. Archaeological evidence has identified that chilli peppers became a domesticated crop over 6,000 years ago. Some evidence suggests that it was part of Mexican cuisine as far back as 4000 BC, which makes it one of the oldest cultivated crops in the Americas. This fiery fruit is believed to have been originally used as a decorative item, before it was used as a food or medicine. Throughout history, there have been reports of chilli being used as jewellery and even in ancient monuments.