A chile with a designation of origin
Mexico's official federal gazette published the protection declaration for the Yucatán Peninsula Habanero Chile Designation of Origin in June 2010. The protected area covers Yucatán, Campeche and Quintana Roo, and the scientific name is Capsicum chinense.
What it protects
The declaration covers the fruit and its derived products within the region: fresh habanero, unripe or ripe, plus pickled chile, paste, whole or powdered dried chile and salsas. The official standard NOM-189-SCFI-2012 grades fresh habanero into four commercial categories. Using the designation requires authorization from the relevant authority.
In Yucatecan cooking
Habanero appears in salsas served with regional dishes, including sopa de lima. Yucatán's tourism ministry records xnipec, made with roasted, ground habanero, lime juice and onion. The Yucatán government also lists other regional chiles: sweet, xcatik and max.
Handling the heat
- It's almost always served on the side: you decide how much.
- Start with a drop; it's very hot.
- Wash your hands after touching it and don't rub your eyes.
Taking the flavor home
Habanero salsas and pastes are sold in markets and shops across the region; look for ones bearing the designation of origin. On Mary Tours trips with lunch included, habanero salsa is usually on the table. Trips leave from the office on Calle 61 in downtown Mérida.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Capsicum chinense |
| Designation of origin | June 2010 |
| States | Yucatán, Campeche and Quintana Roo |
| Fresh grades | 4 (NOM-189-SCFI-2012) |
| Protected products | Pickled, paste, dried and salsas |
Fun facts
- The habanero's designation of origin dates to 2010.
- It protects salsas and pastes, not just the fresh chile.
- Yucatán also uses sweet, xcatik and max chiles.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the habanero have a designation of origin?
Yes, since June 2010, for the Yucatán Peninsula.
Which states does it cover?
Yucatán, Campeche and Quintana Roo.
What's its scientific name?
Capsicum chinense.
Which Yucatecan salsa uses habanero?
Xnipec, among others.
