Anaheim
1,500 SHU · Capsicum annuum
MildHeat range
500 to 2,500 SHU. Typical: 1,500 SHU.
Individual peppers vary within this range based on growing conditions, ripeness, and genetic variation. See the Scoville scale guide for why the range matters.
Flavor and character
Anaheim has flavors of mild, slightly sweet, earthy, tangy when roasted.
The Anaheim is one of the mildest widely available hot peppers and the foundation of New Mexican cuisine. It has a long, tapered shape with thick walls that make it excellent for roasting and stuffing. When roasted over a flame and peeled, the flavor becomes sweet, earthy, and slightly smoky. Anaheims are closely related to the New Mexico chile varieties (Hatch chiles are essentially Anaheims grown in the Hatch Valley). Dried Anaheims become the California chile (chile seco del norte), used in mild red sauces. Heat varies more than most varieties — a hot Anaheim can approach a mild jalapeño, while a mild one barely registers above a bell pepper.
How it’s used
Anaheim is commonly used in chiles rellenos, roasting, green chile sauce, stews, canning.
What to use instead
These substitutions match heat, not flavor. Flavor character changes substantially between peppers. For custom quantities, use the substitution calculator.
Compare with another pepper
Other peppers to explore
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Anaheim compared to a jalapeño?
Anaheim and jalapeños are in a similar heat range. Anaheim at 1,500 SHU is roughly comparable to a jalapeño at 5,000 SHU.
What does Anaheim taste like?
Anaheim has flavors of mild, slightly sweet, earthy, tangy when roasted. Beyond the heat, these flavor notes distinguish it from other peppers at similar Scoville ratings.
Can I grow Anaheim at home?
Yes. Anaheim grows well in USDA zones 7+ and can be grown in containers in cooler zones. Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost. Full sun, moderate water, and well-drained soil produce the best results.
Is Anaheim hotter than Pasilla (Chilaca)?
No. Pasilla (Chilaca) at 2,500 SHU typical is hotter than Anaheim at 1,500 SHU. Compare them side by side on the comparison tool.
What's a good substitute for Anaheim?
The closest substitutes are Poblano and Bell Pepper. These share similar heat ranges and compatible flavor profiles. For exact quantity ratios, use the substitution calculator.
What is Anaheim's Scoville rating?
Anaheim ranges from 500 to 2,500 SHU, with a typical measurement of 1,500 SHU. This range reflects natural variation in capsaicin production due to growing conditions, ripeness, and genetics.