Description

Feher Cseresznye

Product Name: Feher Cseresznye

Cultivar Name: Feher Cseresznye
Species: Capsicum annuum
Common Names: White Cherry Pepper
Type: Heirloom

Origin & Lineage

Geographic Origin:

Feher Cseresznye is a traditional Hungarian heirloom cultivar, deeply rooted in Central European agricultural heritage. The name translates directly to “white cherry,” referencing both its pale immature color and its rounded, cherry-like shape. It has been cultivated across Hungary for generations, particularly in regions known for paprika production. While its exact origin within Hungary remains undocumented, it is widely accepted as a staple among Hungarian home gardeners and small-scale farmers.

Cultural Significance:

Feher Cseresznye holds notable cultural value in Hungarian cuisine, where it has been used for both fresh consumption and pickling. Its mild heat and thick flesh make it ideal for stuffing, and it is often featured in traditional dishes such as savanyúság (Hungarian pickled vegetables) and lecsó (a pepper-based stew). Although not associated with ritual use, Feher Cseresznye peppers have been passed down through generations, often grown in family gardens and preserved using time-honored methods. Their ornamental appeal—particularly the striking transition from pale white to vibrant red—has also made them popular in decorative culinary presentations.

Lineage / Hybridizer History:

Feher Cseresznye is considered an open-pollinated heirloom, meaning it has been stabilized over many generations without formal hybridization. Its lineage is believed to descend from early Capsicum annuum introductions to Europe following the Columbian Exchange. Unlike modern hybrids, this cultivar has not been attributed to a single breeder or institution. Instead, it has been maintained through community stewardship and seed saving practices. Its stability and consistency in fruit shape and flavor have made it a reliable choice for growers seeking traditional paprika varieties.

Heat Profile

Scoville Rating (SHU):

Approximately 1000–3000 SHU

Perceived Heat:

Medium (1000 to 15000 SHU)

Heat Characteristics:

Feher Cseresznye delivers a gentle but noticeable burn, making it suitable for those who prefer moderate heat. The burn is felt primarily on the tongue and roof of the mouth, with a peppery sharpness that builds gradually. It does not overwhelm the palate, allowing the fruit’s flavor to remain prominent. When cooked, the heat softens slightly, integrating smoothly into sauces and stews. The heat is concentrated in the placenta, and while the seeds contribute to pungency, the thick flesh tempers the overall intensity.

Flavor Profile

Tasting Notes:

The flavor is clean and fruity, with subtle citrus undertones. A mild bitterness may be present, especially in under-ripe pods, but this is balanced by a crisp sweetness as the fruit matures. The thick flesh contributes to a satisfying crunch when eaten raw, and the aroma is reminiscent of fresh bell peppers with a hint of spice.

Aftertaste / Finish:

The finish is peppery and lingering, with a mild warmth that persists without becoming intrusive. A faint floral note may be detected in fully ripe specimens, particularly when roasted or grilled.

Ideal Pairings:

• Pickled vegetable medleys
• Stuffed pepper dishes with cheese or rice
• Roasted paprika sauces
• Fresh salsas with tomato and onion
• Hungarian lecsó and gulyás preparations

Fruit Characteristics

Shape:

Round to slightly flattened; cherry-like in appearance

Size:

3–5 cm diameter

Color Stages:

Immature: pale white → Ripe: bright red

Wall Thickness:

Thick

Texture & Skin:

Smooth and glossy; firm to the touch with minimal wrinkling

Plant Details

Growth Habit:

Compact

Plant Height & Width:

Height: 50–60 cm
Width: 40–60 cm

Foliage:

Light green, slightly pubescent

Flower Color:

White

Days to Maturity:

90–120 days from germination

Yield:

Moderate – typically 40–60 pods per plant under optimal conditions

Cultivation Information

Seed Count per Pack:

5 or 10 seeds (Presoaking Chilli Seeds)

Germination Time:

10–14 days (Germinating Chilli Seeds)

Optimal Germination Temp:

25–30°C (Essential guide to ideal temperatures and humidity for chilli seed germination)

Light Requirements:

Filtered sun

Soil Preferences:

• pH: 6.0–6.8
• Well-draining loamy soil
• Rich in compost and organic matter (Easy DIY soil mixes)

Storage Tips:

Store Feher Cseresznye seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration is recommended for long-term viability. Avoid exposure to moisture and direct sunlight.

Notable Compounds

Capsaicinoid Content:

Contains capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin in low to moderate concentrations, contributing to its mild pungency

Volatile Flavor Compounds:

Limonene and trace amounts of citral contribute to its citrus aroma; vanillin may be present in ripe fruit

Anthocyanins / Pigments:

No purple pigmentation observed; coloration is driven by carotenoids responsible for red hue

Culinary & Cultural Use

Traditional Uses:

Feher Cseresznye has long been used in Hungarian kitchens for:

• Pickling in vinegar brines
• Stuffing with cheese, meat, or rice
• Fresh slicing for salads and cold platters
• Roasting for paprika-based sauces

Raw vs Cooked Flavor:

Raw pods offer a crisp texture and bright, fruity flavor with mild heat. Cooking enhances sweetness and reduces bitterness. Roasting brings out smoky undertones, while pickling intensifies the peppery bite and preserves the crunch.

Regional Dishes:

• Lecsó: Hungarian vegetable stew featuring peppers, tomatoes, and onions
• Savanyúság: Pickled vegetable assortments often served with meats
• Töltött paprika: Stuffed peppers with rice and minced meat
• Paprikás: Cream-based paprika sauce used in chicken and veal dishes

Storage / Drying / Preserving Tips:

• Air-drying is suitable for preserving seeds but not recommended for fruit due to thick flesh
• Pickling in vinegar with garlic and dill preserves both flavor and texture
• Roasting followed by freezing retains flavor for later use
• Fermentation in salt brine enhances complexity and shelf life