Aleppo Chilli – The Secret to Rich, Balanced Flavour
The History and Origin of Aleppo Chilli
The Aleppo Chilli, also known as Halaby Pepper, takes its name from the ancient city of Aleppo in Syria, a historic trading hub on the Silk Road. For centuries, this chilli has been a cornerstone of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, prized for its deep, mellow warmth and rich, oily texture.
Traditionally grown in Syria and Southern Turkey, Aleppo chillies are harvested, then coated in vegetable oil and salt before drying. This process is more than tradition — it’s what gives Aleppo its unique texture, preserves its natural oils, and intensifies its flavour. The chillies are de-stemmed and deseeded, then gently crushed into soft flakes with a natural sheen.
Sadly, many low-grade versions skip this method, resulting in dry, bland flakes that lack the complexity and richness of true Aleppo chilli. At CHILLIESontheWEB, we only supply authentically processed Aleppo flakes for full-bodied flavour in every pinch.
Flavour Profile & Heat Level
Aleppo offers a beautiful balance — not too hot, not too sweet — with a natural umami depth that complements rather than overpowers. Its strength lies in how it boosts the flavour of the food around it, rather than stealing the spotlight.
-
Heat Level: Mild to Medium
-
Scoville Rating: 5,000 – 10,000 SHU (typically felt milder due to oil and salt)
-
Flavour Notes: Savoury, slightly fruity, tangy, with warm, oily depth
Culinary Uses of Aleppo Chilli
Aleppo flakes are the quiet hero in the kitchen. Their versatility is unmatched — just a pinch can transform everyday dishes with a mellow heat and rich, mouth-coating warmth.
Perfect for:
-
Tomato-based dishes – Adds depth to pasta sauces, shakshuka, and pizza toppings
-
Cheese recipes – Works beautifully with feta, halloumi, and soft cheeses like ricotta
-
Italian cuisine – Stir into arrabbiata, sprinkle over risotto, or finish off bruschetta
-
Middle Eastern cooking – A must for kebabs, kofta, lentils, and grilled vegetables
-
Eggs & breakfast – On eggs, avocado toast or even sprinkled over labneh with olive oil
Aleppo doesn't shout — it enhances. That’s what makes it such a powerful, go-to chilli in any kitchen.
Why Buy Aleppo Chillies from CHILLIESontheWEB?
True Aleppo chilli is processed using traditional methods — soaked in oil and salt, then dried and flaked to preserve its natural flavour and give it that rich, oily texture. Many cheaper versions skip this process, leaving behind dry flakes with little taste.
At CHILLIESontheWEB, we only stock authentically prepared Aleppo flakes, made using time-honoured techniques that deliver full flavour, every time. Whether you're cooking Mediterranean, Middle Eastern or modern fusion cuisine, our Aleppo chilli brings unmatched depth and warmth to your food.