If you think you can handle your spice, M&S has just dropped a product that might put that confidence to the test. The retailer has launched what it’s calling the UK’s “hottest” supermarket chilli — the infamous ghost chilli — and it’s not for the faint-hearted.
Landing in M&S Foodhalls from 18 March for just £1.50, this tiny but mighty ingredient packs a serious punch. We’re talking up to 1 million on the Scoville scale, which is around 100 times hotter than a jalapeño. Yes, really.
Already a viral favourite among spice lovers, the ghost chilli (also known as bhut jolokia) has built a reputation as one of the world’s hottest chillies. It’s the kind of ingredient that people dare each other to try, film their reactions to, and immediately regret underestimating.
But it’s not just about the heat. Underneath all that fire, there’s a deep, smoky flavour that makes it surprisingly versatile in the kitchen - if you’re brave enough to use it properly. A small amount can transform a marinade, add serious depth to a hot wings sauce, or bring a spicy kick to homemade salsas.
For those feeling adventurous, M&S even suggests infusing it into tequila or another clear spirit for a fiery twist on a margarita or paloma. Just be warned - this is not a “throw it in and hope for the best” situation. A little goes a very long way.
And if you do decide to cook with it, handle with care. Gloves are strongly recommended, or at the very least, a very thorough hand wash afterwards. You could try making our fragrant chilli oil recipe with it - but we'd probably only use about 5% of a chilli...
With more shoppers seeking out bold, punchy flavours, it’s no surprise M&S is leaning into the heat trend. But as my heat tolerance is pathetic, this is one launch I might stay clear of for now...
Mel is the Senior Food & Drink Writer for Good Housekeeping UK, covering all the delicious new product launches that come her way, writing about food and drink topics, and curating gift guides for the best foodie products to buy. Alongside that, she can be found developing and creating cocktails for GH and holds her WSET Level 2 in Wine and Spirits. She was part of the Good Housekeeping Institute food testing team for over four years before moving over to the digital side, so knows a thing or two about great food products. You'll find her scouring the supermarket shelves in her spare time for new and exciting ingredients to experiment with in her kitchen.
