Tien Tsin Chiles (TYEN sin), Capsicum annuum, are medium to hot chiles, measuring 10,000-60,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). They are also called tien tsin pepper, Chinese red pepper or tien tsin chile peppers. Tien Tsin chiles are bright red in color, slender, 1" to 2" in length and ¼" to ½" wide. They are very light and there are approximately 40 chiles per ounce.

The name Tien Tsin is derived from Tientsin, their native province in China. Also known as Tianjin, Tientsin is located in northern China, bordering the Bohai Sea. Tientsin is the name for both the city and the province and is often thought of as the gateway to Beijing, thanks to the major seaport located there.

These chiles are often purchased by Mexican restaurants, cafes, bagel and breakfast shops, bar and grills, seasoning companies, olive oil shops, breweries and distributors.

Flavor Profile

Mostly neutral with a musty, spicy aroma.

Heat Level

Tien Tsin Chiles are considered a medium heat chile, measuring 10,000-60,000 on the Scoville heat unit scale.

How to Use 

Tien Tsin peppers chilies are mainly used as a heat source. They're a fixture in Hunan and Sichuan dishes and are often used whole to spice soups and stir fries.  Add to Kung Pao Chicken for heat and, if they’re left whole, presentation. They are terrific in General Tso's Style Chicken.  Serve a spicy condiment when you put them in Cucumber Relish.  Because of their slim, short shape, Tien Tsin peppers are exceptional chiles for creating chili oils or hot pepper vodkas. They leave beautiful heat and imbue infusions with a rich red color.