If you’ve never heard of Rocoto peppers, also called red apple peppers, you’re in for a treat! These peppers are as beautiful as they are bold, with their vibrant red color and fiery kick. Native to South America, Rocotos have been cultivated for centuries and are cherished for their unique flavor and heat. They’re unlike any pepper I’ve grown before, and I’m excited to share them with you.
This season, I decided to grow Rocotos from seed, and I was amazed by how easily they sprouted and thrived. With a little care and plenty of sunshine, the small seedlings quickly grew into a large and bushy plant. By the end of summer, the plant had filled out beautifully, heavy with bright red peppers that resembled little apples hanging from the branches.
There’s something magical about watching peppers grow from tiny seeds into such bountiful plants. Harvesting them is truly rewarding! I filmed a video of myself picking these peppers so you can see just how vibrant and plentiful they are. Their glossy red skins and crisp texture make them almost too pretty to eat, but trust me, you’ll want to try them.
Flavor-wise, Rocotos pack a punch! They are spicier than jalapeños but with a fruity undertone that adds depth to any dish. I love using these peppers to make fiery fresh sauces, pickling them for sandwiches, or adding fresh slices to perk-up the flavor of stir-fries. They also pair wonderfully with braised meat dishes, giving a comforting meal a pop of heat and color.
If you’re curious about ways to use Rocotos in your cooking, I recommend trying a few recipes already on RunAwayRice. My Lemongrass and Pepper Chicken is perfect with a little diced Rocoto added for extra heat. Or, if you prefer something fresh, toss them into my Mango Shrimp Salad for a fiery twist. You can also add them to make a Homemade Chili Sauce for a burst of spicy and bold flavor. Pickling the peppers is an easy option to preserve them and enjoy them way after summer is over. Follow the Pickled Jalapeños recipe I shared earlier and substitute with the Rocotos.
These Rocoto peppers are more than just a harvest! They’re a celebration of summer, patience, and the joy of growing your own food. I can’t wait for you to see the video of this beautiful plant and hope it inspires you to try growing these stunning red gems in your own garden.
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If you’d like to try growing your own rocoto peppers, here are some handy Amazon picks to get you started:
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Rocoto Pepper Seeds – Start your own spicy red apple peppers at home with these seeds.
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Starter Pots for Indoor Growing – Perfect for beginning seeds inside before moving them outdoors. Start them now and they’ll be ready to transplant outside in a few weeks.
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Essential Gardening Kit – Includes a variety of garden tools, gloves, spray bottles and an adorable carrying tote, everything needed for keeping your plants happy. The little bag helps to keep everything organized and conveniently available.
- Kitchen Shears – sharp kitchen shears to use for snipping peppers, herbs and strong enough to cut meat. I’ve had my Henckels kitchen shears for over 20 years and they are still sharp. (The link is for the updated version.)
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Chef’s Knife – A sharp, reliable knife for chopping peppers and preparing delicious meals. (This is my go-to for kitchen knives!)
