The New Mex Big Jim chili pepper was introduced by New Mexico State University in the 1970s as a cross between local chilies and a Peruvian chili.
Scoville Heat Units: 2,500-3,000 SHU
This giant chili pepper was introduced by New Mexico State University in the 1970s as a cross between a few different types of local chilies and a Peruvian chili.
They measure 10-12” and mature to red, but are usually harvested and used when green. The peppers have actually been listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the largest chile ever grown.
How Hot is the Big Jim Chili Pepper?
Big Jim chili peppers are about as hot as a milder jalapeno pepper, so you'll get a bit of heat, but not very much, depending on your heat tolerance and preference.
Cooking with New Mex Big Jim Peppers
The New Mex Big Jim has a mildly spicy flavor and is great for chiles rellenos because of its size.
They could also be used in salsa or on salads, or the red ones could be dried to make beautiful ristras. They’re also great for roasting, pickling or just about anything else you can think of.
What is the meaning of “NuMex”?
"NuMex" means New Mexico. The NuMex Big Jim is a hybrid developed by the Chile Pepper Institute (New Mexico University), created from New Mexican peppers and a Peruvian pepper. "NuMex" is used by the university for naming such hybrids.
Learn more about Hatch Chile varieties below.
Iris says
When are big Jim peppers in season for shipping?
Mike Hultquist says
Hatch season is October.
K.B says
Jim Lytle’s farm, Roy Nakayama was the horticulturist from NMSU who oversaw the operation. Jim died during development and his wife carried on the farm and continued his/her legacy with the farm. He wasn’t pulling your leg. That was the story I was told from the woman who was the matriarch. Mr. Nakayama grew the chilies on her farm. Very cool story.
Steven Johnston says
I was friends with an elderly gentleman who was born and raised in Hatch New Mexico. He claimed that the big Jim was named for the horticulturist who first cross bred them,gave me his full name and said he knew him personally as a child. I have forgotten most of the story. Was he pulling my leg, or is this the truth?
Mike Hultquist says
According to New Mexico Magazine, it was named after a man named "James Lytle" who worked the test plantings during development of this pepper.
Mary says
I used to live in NM but moved to Texas and they seem to only use Pablanos. As far as I'm concerned, Pablanos are like eating bell peppers. Big Jim's have so much more heat and flavor. Also, Texans don't seem to be able to take the heat of NM chillies. When it comes to roasting them, they don't do it like in NM where we could get them by the bushel. I can get Hatch hot green chilies, though, and when they roast them, I stock up for a year.
Mike Hultquist says
I hear you, Mary. I have to order mine online and have them shipped to me. I left you a link in your previous comment. Take care, and good luck! Gotta get some Hatch!
Mary says
Can I order Big Jim's online? Are they different than Anaheim Green chilies as far a making them? I have had a lot of trouble with the Anaheim peppers falling apart when I roast them then wait to peal them. The Anaheim peppers don't peal without leaving big holes or slits in them. Thank you for your help.
Mike Hultquist says
Mary, check out my page on Where To Buy Hatch Chile Peppers? https://www.chilipeppermadness.com/resources/where-to-buy-hatch-chile-peppers/. Big Jim's are GREAT for roasting and should be what you need. You can also order them already roasted.
Lazy K says
How exciting! I bought some of these seeds without knowing anything about them. I have them started indoors and they are about 1" tall. I only planted a few seeds but now think I'll plant he whole packet. I'm in New Mexico so I now know they will do well. I'm really looking forward to growing these giants. Thanks for the info!
Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
Excellent! I'm jealous!
Edward Campos says
I`m looking to buy seed`s for medium heat Hatch green chile , can you point me in the right direction ?s
Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
Edward, I have some recommendations on this page: https://www.chilipeppermadness.com/resources/where-to-buy-hatch-chile-peppers/. Good luck!!
Linda says
Sandia Seed Company. They have a great selection of chiles.
Amy Wal says
I am looking everywhere for info on which chili’s are good for making green and red enchilada sauce...
Does anyone know which ones are commonly used?
I’m thinking Anaheim because it’s medium spicy....
I
Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
Amy, I like to use dried Mexican pods - Ancho, Pasilla, Mulato in combination with either red tomatoes or green tomatillos. You can certainly use fresh Anaheim peppers, either red or green, roasted or cooked. You can pop in other peppers as well for heat and flavor variances. Let me know if this helps.
dan says
Where can I buy nu Mex chili in Albuquerque?8
REPLY: Dan, you'd have to look locally. I would think you'd have good access to them? -- Mike from Chili Pepper Madness.
Carol Crow says
OMG! I just found you. All these gorgeous chillis! I don't know where to begin. I've only found Anaheim chillis once & that was in London & that's 4 hours from me. Thanks for being here. I'll be back later to order...