Stuffed Chillies

The Anaheim chili is a versatile chili named after the city that made it popular, Anaheim, California. They have a mild flavour and a gentle heat with a thick, juicy exterior. Growing up to 15 cm long, they can be used either green or red. They are perfect if you are lacking garden space and grow well in pots on balconies.

They ideal for roasting, preserving, and stuffing because of their thicker flesh and overall size. You can use them in any dish you’d make using capsicums, though of course expect a small bit of heat, which is often welcomed. Anaheim’s are wonderful for consuming fresh and make a beautiful salsa. They preserve well and freezing is ideal if you have a large crop and want to save them for later use.

Stuffed Chilli Recipe

Ingredients

8 Anaheim chillies, 500g chicken mince, ½ cup chopped onions, 1 tbs minced garlic, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp oregano, ½ tsp cayenne pepper, 1 ½ cups diced tomatoes, 2 cups Cheddar cheese, salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.

Cut the tops off chillies, then cut down the side lengthwise. Remove the seeds. Place the chillies on a baking sheet.

Cook the chicken mince and onions until the meat is no longer pink. Add in the garlic, tomatoes, and spices. Cook for a further 10 minutes.

Remove the pan from the heat and mix in 1 cup of the cheese..

Fill the chillies and top with the remaining cheese.

Place in the oven and bake until the cheese is golden brown, and the chillies are tender.

How to Grow Chillies

Chillies can be quite easy to grow, but a little patience is required. Most varieties will take at least 85 days from sprouting to harvest. For best results, seeds should be started indoors or in a green house in July, to be planted out in late August. Soil temperatures need to be 18 degrees for good germination rates.

When starting seeds, it is recommended to start three to a pot and then thin the weakest seedlings, leaving one. Approximately one week before transplanting outdoors, harden off the seedlings.

They need a soil with good drainage and mulch is a good idea for retaining moisture. Put a few match heads in the hole before planting, chillies like the sulphur.