Cascabel Chilli – Mexico’s Rattling Treasure
The Story Behind the Name
The Cascabel Chilli, also called “chile bola” (ball chilli), gets its name from the Spanish word for "rattle" – and for good reason. When dried, the seeds inside its round shell come loose and rattle when shaken, giving this chilli a personality all its own.
Native to central and southern Mexico, the Cascabel is a beloved variety often used in traditional sauces and stews. It’s one of the few chillies where the sound is just as distinctive as the flavour, and its mild profile makes it ideal for layering into rich dishes without overwhelming heat.
Flavour Profile & Heat Level
The Cascabel has a toasty, nutty depth that works well in many dishes. Its thin skin and mild heat allow it to blend smoothly without dominating the palate.
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Heat Level: Mild
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Scoville Rating: 1,000 – 3,000 SHU
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Flavour Notes: Nutty, earthy, slightly smoky with mild warmth
Culinary Uses of Cascabel Chilli
Cascabels are often used whole or toasted, then blended into sauces, salsas or marinades. Their mild heat and rich flavour make them an excellent base for deeper chilli combinations.
Use them in:
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Salsas & sauces – Combine with tomatoes, garlic and onion for a rustic red salsa
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Soups & stews – Infuse into broths for warm, earthy undertones
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Mexican moles – Pairs beautifully with chillies like Ancho and Pasilla
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Toasted and ground – Toast in a dry pan, then crush into a rub for meats or roasted vegetables
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Rice & beans – Add a whole pod to the pot for subtle background flavour
Cascabels are a great "bridge chilli" – adding complexity without the heat, and blending seamlessly into both traditional and modern recipes.
Why Buy Cascabel Chillies from CHILLIESontheWEB?
We source top-grade Cascabels direct from Mexico – plump, round pods that rattle when shaken and deliver the classic nutty, earthy tones this chilli is famous for.
Low-grade Cascabels are often brittle, overly dried or lack their signature aroma. Ours are carefully dried and packed to preserve flavour and structure, so you get full character in every pod.
Whether you're making mole, blending sauces, or just discovering Mexican chillies, Cascabel is a must-have in your collection.