Botanical Name: Capsicum annuum
Also Called: Halaby Peppers, Maras Chiles
Aleppo chiles are a flavorful, moderately spicy chili pepper that originates from the city of Aleppo in northern Syria. These peppers are known for their unique combination of mild heat, tangy sweetness, and rich, earthy flavor, making them a beloved ingredient in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and global cuisines. Typically dried and crushed into flakes, Aleppo chiles offer a bright red color and a coarse texture, similar to crushed red pepper but with a more nuanced flavor profile.
On the Scoville scale, Aleppo chiles register between 10,000 to 30,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), placing them at a moderate heat level, roughly comparable to a milder version of cayenne pepper. The heat builds slowly and is more subtle than overpowering, allowing the pepper’s complex flavors to shine through. Aleppo chiles are known for their fruity, slightly raisin-like taste with hints of cumin and sun-dried tomato, which adds depth and balance to both savory and spicy dishes.
In cooking, Aleppo chile flakes are versatile and used to season a wide range of dishes. They are commonly sprinkled over grilled meats, kebabs, and vegetables or stirred into soups, stews, and sauces for added warmth and depth. Aleppo chiles are also a favorite in spice blends like za’atar and can be mixed with olive oil and lemon juice to create a flavorful marinade or dressing. The mild heat and tangy-sweet undertones make them an excellent addition to rubs for roasted meats or sprinkled over flatbreads and hummus.