How to Harvest Chillies
After months of care and attention, it’s finally time to harvest your chillies! When and how you harvest will depend on the type of chilli you’re growing and what you plan to do with them.
For example, varieties like the Aji Crystal can be harvested at both stages:
Green pods: Ideal for eating fresh.
Mature red pods: Perfect for pickling or extracting seeds for next year’s plants.
Pickling Chillies
Pickling preserves the fresh flavour of chillies like Jalapeños, Scotch Bonnets, and Aji Crystal pods.
Steps for Pickling:
- Wash all pods thoroughly.
- Remove stems.
- Leave whole or slice the pods.
- Place chillies in a clean jar, cover with pickling vinegar, and add a pinch of salt. Add dried herbs or spices for extra flavour.
- Store in a dark, dry place. Once opened, keep the jar in the fridge.
This process is incredibly easy
Drying Pods
Drying chillies is a traditional way to preserve them while enhancing their flavour and heat.
Steps for Drying:
- Thread each pod’s stem with a needle and cotton.
- Hang in a warm, dry place with good airflow.
- Drying takes 2–4 weeks, depending on conditions.
Tip: If you spot any pods starting to decompose, remove them immediately.
Seed Extraction
To extract seeds:
- Avoid overheating the pods (no hotter than 30°C) to preserve seed viability.
- Once dry, snap off the stem, open the pod, and gently release the seeds.
- Test dryness by bending a seed — if it snaps, it’s dry. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Creating Chilli Powder
Grinding dried chillies into powder is quick and easy:
- Remove seeds and stems.
- Grind pods with a pestle and mortar or an electric grinder.
- Store powder in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Tip: Use an electric grinder in short bursts to avoid overheating the motor.
Freezing Chillies
Freezing is simple but changes the pod’s texture, leaving the flesh soggy. Use frozen chillies for:
- Chilli jams
- Salsas
Tip: I often freeze Scotch Bonnets or Habaneros and make fresh chilli jam throughout the year.
Eat Fresh or Cook Right Away
Enjoy your fresh chillies immediately! For a quick snack, try Chilli Poppers:
- Scoop out the seeds.
- Fill with cheese.
- Dip in beaten egg, coat with breadcrumbs, and deep fry until golden.
- Serve with a dip — a fantastic snack!
Preservation Summary
- Pickling: Fresh taste, long shelf life.
- Drying: Enhances flavour and heat, ideal for storage or grinding.
- Freezing: Best for cooked recipes like jams or salsas.
- Fresh Use: Pick and enjoy straight away!