Abchazskij Ostruyi – a chilli with lovely salty-liquorice tones
What makes Abchazskij Ostruyi special?
Abchazskij Ostruyi is a unique and rare chilli variety that stands out with its intense flavour and unusual salmiak (salty liquorice) tones. This chilli is perfect for anyone seeking a bold and distinctive flavour profile. The pods are large and red, with a full aroma and flavour that is hard to find in other varieties.
Background and name
The name Abchazskij Ostruyi gives away its origin – this chilli comes from Russia and is named after the region of Abkhazia. The variety has a long history as a valued spice in Russian cooking, where its unique flavour and aroma are used to lift traditional dishes.
Appearance and growth habit
The plants grow to about one metre tall with a robust, upright habit. They are very productive and deliver a large number of pods through the growing season. The pods are large, light red and glossy, with a thick wall that makes them excellent for both fresh use and preserving.
Flavour and uses
What really sets Abchazskij Ostruyi apart from other chilli varieties is its unique flavour and aroma. The pods have a clear and marked salmiak note that is unusual in chilli, adding an exciting new dimension to dishes. This is combined with a mild to medium heat, which makes it versatile in the kitchen.
Ways to use Abchazskij Ostruyi
- Marinades and rubs: Grind the chilli to a powder and use it in marinades for meat and fish to give a unique flavour with a hint of salmiak.
- Pickles: Perfect for pickling and making spicy accompaniments that lift cheese boards and sandwiches.
- Sauces and spice pastes: The salmiak note suits sauces with a full, round flavour, especially for meat dishes and stews.
- Experiments in desserts: Use small amounts in chocolate desserts for an unexpected twist.
Abchazskij Ostruyi is a chilli variety that impresses not only with its looks but also with its unique flavour profile. Whether you are a chilli lover or looking for something new and exciting in your cooking, this Russian gem is an excellent choice.
The price is for 6 seeds
Sow in moist seed compost or peat pellets and keep warm, at about 25–30°C for best germination The compost should be moist but not wet.
A propagator helps to keep the air humid. Once the seedlings have grown a little and developed their second pair of leaves, you can lower the temperature to about 20°C and take them out of the propagator.
They do well on a sunny windowsill, in a greenhouse and outdoors in summer. For best results, soak the seeds in Growhelper for 12–24 hours before sowing
