Kanthari mulaku, also known as bird’s eye chili, is a small but extremely pungent chili pepper from Kerala, India. Considered one of the hottest chilies in the world, it is prized for its intense heat and unique flavor.
Key facts about kanthari mulaku:
- Appearance: The pepper is petite and rounded, growing upright on the plant. It changes from green to red, orange, or a rare white as it matures. The name “kanthari” translates to “small and round” in Malayalam.
- Flavor profile: Kanthari mulaku is known for its fiery heat, which is due to a high concentration of capsaicin.
- Culinary uses: It is a key ingredient in many traditional Kerala dishes, including chutneys (
chammanthi), pickles (uppilittathu), curries, and marinades. - Health benefits: The pepper is traditionally used in folk medicine and is believed to have medicinal properties. It is said to aid digestion, reduce cholesterol, and help lower blood pressure.
