Cajun Belle Substitutes: The Complete Guide for Home Cooks
Can't find Cajun Belle? Or maybe you're looking for a substitute with a bit more kick? You're in the right place.
The Cajun Belle is a mild pepper with a heat level of 500-500 SHU.
We've analyzed dozens of chili peppers to find the best replacements for any situation. Whether you need something milder, hotter, or smokier, here are the top 5 Cajun Belle substitutes, ranked for home cooking.
Top 5 Cajun Belle Pepper Substitutes Ranked
🥇 1. Anaheim
Best for: Best for heat lovers looking to add serious spice to their dish
Heat: Much hotter (bring milk!) (500-2,500 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use about ⅓ to ½ of a Anaheim for every Cajun Belle
Why it Works: Offers a good balance of heat, flavor, and availability for most recipes.
🥈 2. Friggitello
Best for: Best for slightly toning down the heat while keeping the pepper flavor
Heat: Noticeably milder (100-500 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a 1-to-1 basis for volume and flavor
Why it Works: Offers a good balance of heat, flavor, and availability for most recipes.
🥉 3. Pepperoncini
Best for: Best for slightly toning down the heat while keeping the pepper flavor
Heat: Noticeably milder (100-500 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a 1-to-1 basis for volume and flavor
Why it Works: Offers a good balance of heat, flavor, and availability for most recipes.
4️⃣ 4. Pimento
Best for: Best for slightly toning down the heat while keeping the pepper flavor
Heat: Noticeably milder (100-500 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a 1-to-1 basis for volume and flavor
Why it Works: Offers a good balance of heat, flavor, and availability for most recipes.
5️⃣ 5. Cherry Bomb
Best for: Best for heat lovers looking to add serious spice to their dish
Heat: Extremely hotter (use sparingly!) (100-5,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use about ⅓ to ½ of a Cherry Bomb for every Cajun Belle
Why it Works: Offers a good balance of heat, flavor, and availability for most recipes.
Heat & Flavor Comparison Table
| Pepper | Heat (SHU) | Flavor Notes | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cajun Belle Pepper (Original) | 500-500 | N/A | Specialty stores |
| Anaheim Pepper | 500-2,500 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Friggitello Pepper | 100-500 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Pepperoncini Pepper | 100-500 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Pimento Pepper | 100-500 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Cherry Bomb Pepper | 100-5,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for Cajun Belle?
The best substitute depends on your goal. The Anaheim is the closest overall match. Best for heat lovers looking to add serious spice to their dish Use about ⅓ to ½ of a Anaheim for every Cajun Belle.
Can I use jalapeño instead of Cajun Belle?
Jalapeño is about 10x hotter than Cajun Belle Pepper, so use less jalapeño if you substitute it. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste.
How do I adjust the heat level when substituting?
Start with less than you think you need—you can always add more heat, but you can't take it away! If your substitute is milder, add more gradually and taste as you go. If it's hotter, start with half the amount and build up. Remember that cooking method also affects heat: boiling reduces spice, while frying intensifies it.
Will the flavor be the same?
No substitute is ever a perfect 1-for-1 match in flavor. The Anaheim is the closest you'll get. Others may fundamentally change the flavor of your dish—but often in a delicious way! Consider whether you're substituting for heat, flavor, or both.
Can I use Cajun Belle powder instead of fresh Cajun Belle?
Yes, but the flavor will be different. As a general rule, ¼ teaspoon of dried pepper powder is roughly equivalent to one fresh pepper. However, you'll miss the fresh, crisp texture and bright flavor. Powder works best in spice rubs, soups, and slow-cooked dishes where texture isn't critical.