Facing Heaven Chilli
Chaotian · Chao Tian Jiao · 朝天椒 · Sky-Pointing Pepper
Heat context
Illustration coming soon
About this variety
Facing Heaven is a classic Sichuan chilli named for its distinctive upward-pointing pods that face the sky. Known as 'Chao Tian Jiao' in Mandarin, this medium-hot variety is essential to northern Chinese cooking, particularly in hot pots, stir-fries, and Sichuan chilli oil. The compact plants produce prolific yields of small, conical peppers that dry quickly and deliver clean, direct heat without overwhelming other flavors.
Flavour profile
Culinary uses
Essential for Sichuan chilli oil, used whole or crushed in stir-fries, hot pots, and dry-fried dishes. Often toasted briefly in oil to release aromatic compounds before adding other ingredients. Excellent dried and ground into chilli flakes.
Quick reference