Pronounced “NOR-a”, these chiles are from the Capsicum annuum species, which is part of the plant genus Capsicum. They are closely related to bell peppers. These chiles are also known as nyora, pimiento choricero and are sometimes referred to as the paprika pepper.

The Nora Chile’s appearance is somewhat similar to cascabel chiles, with a heart-shaped body (approximately 1” tall by 1” wide) and a glossy, wrinkled flesh that is dark red in color.

Native to the Valencia region of Spain, these are the most commonly used chile peppers in Spanish cuisine.

History and Cultivation

Columbus brought back numerous Capsicum annuum chiles from his voyage to the New World, and it is believed that he left the early ancestor of this chile with the Spanish monks of the Yuste monastery. These monks then shared it with their brothers in the congregation of La Nora in Murcia, which is where it gets its name. Today, Nora Chiles are primarily cultivated in the Valencia region, which is located on the east coast of the Iberian Peninsula fronting the Gulf of Valencia on the Mediterranean Sea.  

80% of Nora peppers are grown for bright red colored paprika and its intense sweet flavor.

How To Use

Nora Chiles are rarely used fresh, and they impart a deep red color to dishes whether used whole, sliced or crushed.

Nora chiles are used in crab cakes, chorizo sausage, rice dishes like arroz a banda and paella, mashed potatoes, romesco sauce, soups, stews and sautéed vegetables. They also pair well with chicken and seafood, especially cod, octopus and rockfish.  

Flavor and Heat Profile

The heat of the chile is very mild and comes in at 500 SHU. It has a rich sweet flavor with an earthy taste.

Helpful Hints

We recommend you remove the seeds prior to using as the core of the chile pepper contains a large amount of seeds which will leave a bitter flavor.

To rehydrate, rinse these chiles rinse them with warm water and then soak in hot water for 10 minutes. Once rehydrated, dice or puree and add to a recipe. You can also add directly to recipe with enough liquid that will cook at least 10 minutes.

If you are a fan of dried chiles, whether whole, crushed or ground, then you will love our deep selection.

** This product is certified kosher.

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