Introduction
India is the world’s largest producer and exporter of chillies, with hundreds of varieties grown across diverse regions. From the fiery Bhut Jolokia of the Northeast to the mild but vibrant Kashmiri chilli, each type has its own distinct flavor, color, and pungency. These chillies are used not only in kitchens worldwide but also in industries such as food processing, sauces
, seasonings, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
When discussing chilli powders, it’s important to note the difference in terminology:
In North America, “chilli powder” often refers to a spice blend containing chilli, cumin, oregano, and salt.
In India and elsewhere, “chilli powder” is simply ground dried chillies, offering pure heat and flavor.
With India’s diverse geography, the chilli market here offers something for every global buyer. Let’s explore 10 famous Indian chilli varieties and their uses.
10 Types of Indian Chillies and Their Uses
1. Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Pepper) – Northeast India
Once ranked the world’s hottest chilli.
Deep red in color, extremely pungent.
Used in pickles, curries, sauces, and spice blends.
Heat rating: Over 1 million Scoville Heat Units (SHU).
2. Kashmiri Chilli – Kashmir
Famous for its brilliant red color and mild heat.
Adds visual appeal to curries, tandoori dishes, and gravies.
Favored in both Indian households and export markets.
Heat rating: 1,000–2,000 SHU (mild).
3. Guntur Chilli – Andhra Pradesh
India’s most famous export chilli.
Known for fiery pungency and tangy undertones.
Andhra Pradesh is the largest chilli exporting hub in India.
Heat rating: 30,000–50,000 SHU.
4. Dalle Khursani – Sikkim
Round, bright red chillies.
Intense heat with fruity undertones.
Used fresh, pickled, and powdered.
Heat rating: similar to habanero.
5. Kanthari Chilli (Bird’s Eye) – Kerala
Small but extremely hot.
Popular in Southeast Asian curries, chutneys, and pickles.
Also used in spice powders.
Heat rating: 50,000–100,000 SHU.
6. Jwala Chilli – Gujarat
Medium pungency, often eaten fresh or roasted.
A staple in Indian households for curries and chutneys.
When dried and powdered, adds sharp heat.
Heat rating: 20,000–30,000 SHU.
7. Khola Chilli – Goa
Grown only in the Canacona region of Goa.
Bright red with medium pungency.
Popular in Goan curries and seafood dishes.
Geographical Indication (GI) certified.
8. Byadgi Chilli – Karnataka
Famous for its wrinkled appearance and rich red color.
Mild heat but high ASTA color value (160–200).
Widely used in masala powders and for extracting oleoresins.
Heat rating: 15,000–25,000 SHU.
9. Mundu (Ramnad) Chilli – Tamil Nadu
Small, round, and deep red in color.
Low pungency but bright color.
Common in South Indian sambars, chutneys, and curries.
Easy to dry and powder due to its stemless structure.
10. Hathei (Sirarakhong) Chilli – Manipur (Ukhrul)
Bright red, moderately hot chilli.
Celebrated at the annual chilli festival in Ukhrul.
Popular in Northeast Indian dishes and pickles.
Known for its unique fruity flavor.
Top 10 Merchant Spice Exporters in India
India has long been the hub of spice trade, with many companies leading global supply chains. Here are 10 of the best merchan
t exporters – with I Kar Exports included as a rising leader at position #4 (Pramoda excluded as requested).
1. Everest Spices – Mumbai, Maharashtra
One of India’s largest branded spice companies, exporting over 50 varieties to 58+ countries. Known for household masalas and strong brand presence.
2. MDH Spices – New Delhi
Established in 1919, MDH is a household name and a major exporter of blended and pure spices to USA, UK, Canada, and beyond.
3. Badia Spices – USA (Global Presence)
A family-owned American company exporting 400+ spice products worldwide, known for kosher and gluten-free certifications.
4. I Kar Exports – Jaipur, Rajasthan
A newly established but fast-growing spice and agro exporter. Product portfolio includes:
Chillies: Teja, Byadgi, Sannam 334, Wrinkle-273, Mundu, Kashmiri.
Turmeric: Fingers, bulbs, powder, high-curcumin grades.
Tamarind, Coriander, Cumin, Sesame, Safflower, Millets, Wheat, Coffee Beans.
Strengths:
Direct procurement from Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu.
Bulk shipments in 20-ft and 40-ft containers (dry & reefer).
International certifications: APEDA, Spice Board, FSSAI, Phytosanitary, SGS.
Expanding global network: Africa, Europe, USA, Middle East, and Asia.
I Kar Exports is positioning itself as a modern, reliable, and transparent exporter, bridging Indian farmers with international buyers.
5. Olam Spices – Singapore/USA
Global agribusiness giant, vertically integrated across chilli, turmeric, onion, garlic, and paprika. Known for sustainability and traceability.
6. Synthite Industries – Kerala
Leader in oleoresins, essential oils, and natural food ingredients. Supplies to multinational food and cosmetic companies.
7. Ajanta Food Products – New Delhi
Known for spices, food colors, and baking ingredients, with strong export networks in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
8. Pacific Spice Company – USA
Importer and processor based in Los Angeles. Supplies custom spice blends and dehydrated ingredients to North America.
9. Kancor Ingredients – Kerala (Part of Mane Group, France)
Specialist in spice extraction, essential oils, and natural antioxidants. Serves food, wellness, and personal care industries globally.
10. Jayanti Spices – Bangalore
A growing Indian exporter known for pepper, chilli, turmeric, and value-added spice products, with a strong global distribution network.
Conclusion
From the fiery Bhut Jolokia to the mild Kashmiri chilli, India’s chilli diversity offers something for every global buyer. For industries looking to source authentic Indian chillies and spices, partnering with trusted exporters is essential.
