Teja Chilli Pods | Dried | Fiery | Intensely Hot

Fierce, fiery, and native to the same Guntur region of Andhra Pradesh that gave us the Sanam — Teja Chilli Pods (Capsicum annuum) are the chilli that serious heat seekers reach for when they want something that means business. Vibrant red, elongated, and sun-dried to preserve maximum potency, these are the pods that have been making Andhra Pradesh cooking legendary for generations — a region already famous for producing some of India's hottest and most flavoursome chillies, and Teja is one of its most prized exports.

At 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville units and sitting firmly at the hotter end of the scale, Teja chillies deliver a sharp, fierce pungency with a distinctive fruity depth underneath that makes them considerably more interesting than a one-dimensional heat bomb. The fruit is there. The aroma is slightly smoky and intensely fragrant. But make no mistake — this chilli leads with fire and everything else follows.

Use sparingly. It has absolutely no intention of being subtle.

Toast them briefly in a dry pan before use and the aroma that fills the kitchen is enough to make the whole household curious about what's coming. Drop whole pods into hot oil for a tempering that turns the fat fiery red and fragrant before a single ingredient has touched the pan. Rehydrate in warm water and chop or blend into curry pastes and hot sauces that build a heat so clean and persistent it makes every other chilli feel like it was holding back. Ground into a powder they deliver an intense, concentrated heat and colour that transforms spice blends, marinades, and dry rubs into something that demands respect from anyone who tastes them.

Bloom in hot oil alongside Cumin Seeds and Mustard Seeds for a tempering that makes a simple dal taste like it was made somewhere considerably more daring than your kitchen. Grind with Coriander Seed Splits and Garlic Granules for a chilli paste that delivers fierce, clean heat into curries and marinades without apology. Combine with Fenugreek Seeds and Turmeric in Andhra-style spice blends that build a foundation of genuine, regional Indian heat. Blend with Smoked Paprika and Garlic Granules for a hot rub that makes meats taste like they were made for the grill and nothing else. Use in homemade hot sauces alongside Black Pepper and Coriander Seed Splits for a condiment that stops people reaching for anything else permanently.

Fierce. Fruity. No Apologies. Yours.

Hand-packed in Wollongong. Packed fresh in food-safe pouches and ready for your pantry.

Allergen information: May contain soy, gluten, milk, sulphites, tree nuts, peanuts, sesame and egg.

Note: All information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a qualified professional before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, or managing a health condition.