Mike Eats the Rare Fish Pepper | Pepper Talk

Tasting One of the Most Colorful Heirloom Peppers

Mike is back in the greenhouse for another episode of Pepper Talk, and this time he’s taking a bite of the legendary Fish Pepper, a rare heirloom variety prized as much for its history and looks as it is for its flavor.

With moderate heat and a surprisingly complex taste, the Fish Pepper proves that you don’t need extreme Scoville numbers to make a big impression.

🎥 Watch as Mike dives into this unique pepper and shares what it’s really like to eat one fresh.

About the Fish Pepper

The Fish Pepper is a historic heirloom variety with deep roots in Caribbean and African American culinary traditions. Once kept as a closely guarded secret ingredient in regional seafood dishes, it was officially released to the public in 1995 by renowned grower and historian William Woys Weaver.

Traditionally used with fish, oysters, crab, and shellfish, the Fish Pepper delivers a fruity, slightly sweet flavor with a medium burn that ranges from 5,000 to 30,000 Scoville Heat Units, roughly comparable to a mild-to-hot jalapeño, depending on the pod.

This balanced heat makes it incredibly versatile in the kitchen, adding warmth without overpowering the dish.

What Makes Fish Peppers So Special?

Fish Peppers aren’t just delicious, they’re one of the most visually striking pepper plants you can grow.

As they mature, the pods go through an unforgettable color progression:

• • Creamy white

  • Light green with dark green striping

  • Bright orange

  • Deep red with brown and green striping

No two peppers look exactly the same, which makes them a standout in gardens, containers, and ornamental beds alike.

Beyond looks, Fish Pepper plants are:

• • Highly productive

  • Container-friendly

  • Easy to grow, even for newer gardeners

They’re proof that heirloom peppers can be both beautiful and practical.

Want to Grow Fish Peppers at Home?

If watching Mike tackle the Fish Pepper has you curious to experience it yourself, growing it at home is the best way to do it.

We offer pepper seeds, live plants (seasonally), and trusted growing supplies so you can take peppers from germination all the way to harvest with confidence. Growing your own peppers means fresher flavor, better heat control, and a deeper appreciation for what goes into every bite.

Whether you’re just getting started or expanding your pepper collection, there’s nothing quite like harvesting a pepper you grew yourself.