The 5 Best Substitutes for Trinidad Scorpion Butch T (Ranked by Chefs)
Can't find Trinidad Scorpion Butch T? Or maybe you're looking for a substitute with a little less heat? You're in the right place.
The Trinidad Scorpion Butch T is a extremely hot pepper with a heat level of 800,000-2,009,231 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 Trinidad Scorpion Butch T substitutes, ranked for home cooking.
Top 5 Trinidad Scorpion Butch T Substitutes Ranked
🥇 1. Komodo Dragon
Best for: Best for when you want the same flavor profile but a noticeable step up in heat
Heat: Noticeably hotter (1,400,000-2,200,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use a little less Komodo Dragon
Why it Works: The Komodo Dragon maintains a similar level of heat, making it an excellent substitute for most recipes.
🥈 2. Naga Morich
Best for: Best for maintaining the same heat level with a different flavor profile
Heat: Nearly identical heat (1,000,000-1,598,227 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a one-to-one basis
Why it Works: The Naga Morich maintains a similar level of heat, making it an excellent substitute for most recipes.
🥉 3. Ghost
Best for: Best for slightly toning down the heat while keeping the pepper flavor
Heat: Slightly milder (850,000-1,125,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a 1-to-1 basis for volume and flavor
Why it Works: The Ghost maintains a similar level of heat, making it an excellent substitute for most recipes.
4️⃣ 4. Naga Viper
Best for: Best for maintaining the same heat level with a different flavor profile
Heat: Nearly identical heat (1,382,118-1,382,118 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a one-to-one basis
Why it Works: The Naga Viper maintains a similar level of heat, making it an excellent substitute for most recipes.
5️⃣ 5. Infinity chilli
Best for: Best for slightly toning down the heat while keeping the pepper flavor
Heat: Slightly milder (1,067,286-1,067,286 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a 1-to-1 basis for volume and flavor
Why it Works: The Infinity chilli maintains a similar level of heat, making it an excellent substitute for most recipes.
Heat & Flavor Comparison Table
| Pepper | Heat (SHU) | Flavor Notes | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trinidad Scorpion Butch T (Original) | 800,000-2,009,231 | N/A | Specialty stores |
| Komodo Dragon Pepper | 1,400,000-2,200,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Naga Morich | 1,000,000-1,598,227 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Ghost Pepper | 850,000-1,125,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Naga Viper Pepper | 1,382,118-1,382,118 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Infinity chilli | 1,067,286-1,067,286 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for Trinidad Scorpion Butch T?
The best substitute depends on your goal. The Komodo Dragon is the closest overall match. Best for when you want the same flavor profile but a noticeable step up in heat Use a little less Komodo Dragon.
Can I use jalapeño instead of Trinidad Scorpion Butch T?
Trinidad Scorpion Butch T is about 280.9x 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 Komodo Dragon 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 Trinidad Scorpion Butch T powder instead of fresh Trinidad Scorpion Butch T?
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.