Working closely with farmers in the Hatch Valley, I’ve come to appreciate just how special the NuMex Big Jim really is. It’s not just another green chile — it’s a New Mexico icon with a story that spans decades, fields, and generations.
Originally developed by New Mexico State University in 1975, the Big Jim pepper was bred for size, flavor, and versatility. It even earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for producing the world’s largest chile pod — an impressive 13.5 inches long. While that’s the record, it’s not uncommon to see Big Jims stretch to a full foot in the field.
Why People Love Big Jim Peppers
Sometimes, you want bold flavor without the burn — and that’s exactly what Big Jim delivers. These chiles offer a mild heat (ranging from 4,000 to 8,000 Scoville Heat Units) with a rich, slightly sweet flavor that shines in traditional New Mexican dishes. If you’ve ever had a perfectly roasted chile relleno, there’s a good chance Big Jim was at the center of it.
With thick, meaty pods and just enough spice to keep things interesting, they’re ideal for:
- Stuffed peppers and chile rellenos
- Fire-roasted chile salsas
- Grilled and diced into tacos or enchiladas
Growing NuMex Big Jim Peppers
The farmers I work with love growing Big Jim for its reliability and yield. These plants are hearty, easy to manage, and incredibly productive. You’ll see them mature from emerald green to deep red if left on the vine — though many folks harvest them green for peak flavor and firmness.
- Species: Capsicum annuum
- Heat Level: 4,000–8,000 SHU
- Type: Mild Hatch Chile
- Origin: Hatch Valley, New Mexico
- Days to Harvest: 75+
- Pod Size: Typically 12 inches or more
- Color: Green to red when fully mature
- Seeds per Packet: 10+
Fun Fact from the Field
One grower told me that chefs from all over the country call ahead just to reserve their annual stash of Big Jims. For many, it’s not summer without them — a tradition rooted in flavor, nostalgia, and New Mexico soil.
If you're just getting into Hatch chiles, Big Jim is a great place to start. Milder than other varieties but packed with authentic flavor, it's a favorite among families, first-timers, and lifelong chile lovers alike.
Learn more about all things Hatch Chile, HERE.
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