The ghost chile, or bhut jolokia, is a naturally occurring chile hybrid from the Assam region of Northeast India. Known for its extreme heat—more than twice that of a habanero—it also boasts a rich flavor profile with hints of tomato and tamarind that come through with its fiery kick.

For those who love intense heat, ghost chile is a fun ingredient to experiment with! Try infusing it into tequila, adding it to a pot of chili, or mixing it into honey where the sweetness balances the heat. It’s also traditionally used in Indian cuisine to spice up curries and chutneys.