The 5 Best Substitutes for Lemon Drop (Ranked by Chefs)
Can't find Lemon Drop? Or maybe you're looking for a substitute with a different flavor profile? You're in the right place.
The Lemon Drop is a hot pepper with a heat level of 40,000-40,000 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 Lemon Drop substitutes, ranked for home cooking.
Top 5 Lemon Drop Pepper Substitutes Ranked
🥇 1. Rocoto
Best for: Best for maintaining the same heat level with a different flavor profile
Heat: Nearly identical heat (40,000-40,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a one-to-one basis
Why it Works: The Rocoto maintains a similar level of heat, making it an excellent substitute for most recipes.
🥈 2. Cayenne
Best for: Best for maintaining the same heat level with a different flavor profile
Heat: Nearly identical heat (30,000-50,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a one-to-one basis
Why it Works: The Cayenne maintains a similar level of heat, making it an excellent substitute for most recipes.
🥉 3. Tabasco
Best for: Best for maintaining the same heat level with a different flavor profile
Heat: Nearly identical heat (30,000-50,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a one-to-one basis
Why it Works: The Tabasco maintains a similar level of heat, making it an excellent substitute for most recipes.
4️⃣ 4. NuMex 'Twilight'
Best for: Best for maintaining the same heat level with a different flavor profile
Heat: Nearly identical heat (30,000-50,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a one-to-one basis
Why it Works: The NuMex 'Twilight' maintains a similar level of heat, making it an excellent substitute for most recipes.
5️⃣ 5. Aji Amarillo
Best for: Best for maintaining the same heat level with a different flavor profile
Heat: Nearly identical heat (30,000-50,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a one-to-one basis
Why it Works: The Aji Amarillo maintains a similar level of heat, making it an excellent substitute for most recipes.
Heat & Flavor Comparison Table
| Pepper | Heat (SHU) | Flavor Notes | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lemon Drop Pepper (Original) | 40,000-40,000 | N/A | Specialty stores |
| Rocoto Pepper | 40,000-40,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Cayenne Pepper | 30,000-50,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Tabasco Pepper | 30,000-50,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| NuMex 'Twilight' | 30,000-50,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Aji Amarillo | 30,000-50,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for Lemon Drop?
The best substitute depends on your goal. The Rocoto is the closest overall match. Best for maintaining the same heat level with a different flavor profile Use on a one-to-one basis.
Can I use jalapeño instead of Lemon Drop?
Lemon Drop Pepper is about 8x hotter than jalapeño, so jalapeño will be significantly milder. You'd need to use more jalapeño, but the flavor profile may not match well.
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 Rocoto 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 Lemon Drop powder instead of fresh Lemon Drop?
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.