Organic ‘Kalosca Paprika’ hot pepper

Organic hot pepper ‘Kalosca Paprika’ (Capsicum annuum) from the seed company Gaia, a Hungarian variety with an intense taste

The ‘Kalosca Paprika’ pepper is a Hungarian heirloom variety , renowned for its rich aroma and moderate heat . Very similar to the ‘Szegedi 179’ paprika , it is distinguished by its thicker flesh (about inch wide ) and its length that can exceed 6 inches (15 cm). Its fruits ripen from green to dark red , developing an intense, fruity flavor , perfect for drying and grinding into powder to prepare an exceptional homemade paprika .

Did you know?

With an intensity of 100 to 1,000 on the Scoville scale (SHU) , the ‘Kalosca Paprika’ pepper is mild to slightly spicy , offering a subtle heat that enhances dishes without overpowering them. It is one of the key ingredients in Hungarian goulash and traditional spice blends .

Spread: Compact and productive port
Plant height: 50 to 80 cm
Quantity per pack: 25 seeds
Companion plants: Alliums, basil, tomato, spinach, oregano, marjoram, nasturtium, marigold
Enemy plants: Beans, brassicas, fennel
Scoville Scale (SHU): 100 – 1,000

Cultivation method

Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before planting out . Maintain a temperature of 27-31C to ensure rapid and uniform germination (7-21 days). Harden off plants gradually to 18-19C before transplanting into the ground or pots. Plant 0.5 cm (1/4″) deep , spacing plants 30-45 cm (12-18″) apart and rows 60-75 cm (24-30″) apart. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil for optimum production.

Harvesting and storage

Harvest peppers when they reach their deep red color , indicating full maturity . Regular picking helps to encourage continued production . Store them at 10-12C , with a relative humidity of 95% , for optimal preservation.

Ideas for use in the garden and kitchen

• Dry it and grind it into powder for a rich and fragrant homemade paprika .
• Add it fresh or dried to stews and casseroles for depth of flavor.
• Mix it into marinades and sauces to enhance the flavors of your recipes.
• Grow it in a pot or in the ground , it adapts well to both types of cultivation.

With its sweet and fruity flavor , its slight heat and its aromatic richness , the ‘Kalosca Paprika’ Pepper is a must-have for lovers of spicy and traditional cuisine !