Sichuan Facing Heaven Chilli – Fiery Heat with Fragrant Flavour
A Classic of Chinese Cuisine
Facing Heaven Chilli, known in Mandarin as Chaotian Jiao (meaning “sky-facing pepper”), is a bold and fiery variety from China’s Sichuan province. Named for the way its pods point upward as they grow, this chilli is famous for its intense, clean heat and aromatic character — making it a staple in countless stir-fries, dry dishes and chilli oils.
Used extensively in Sichuan and Hunan cooking, it brings the heat, colour and fragrance that defines dishes like Chongqing chicken, hot pot and mapo tofu.
Flavour Profile & Heat Level
This chilli is a flavour-driver — hot, clean and direct, but with a subtle fragrance behind the fire.
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Heat Level: Medium
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Scoville Rating: 15,000 – 20,000 SHU
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Flavour Notes: Sharp heat, earthy, slightly fruity, aromatic
Culinary Uses of Facing Heaven Chilli
Best used whole or broken in half, Facing Heaven is typically fried in oil at the start of a dish to infuse heat and aroma into the base.
Perfect for:
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Dry-fried dishes – Ideal for dishes like Chongqing chicken or dry-fried beef
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Chilli oils – Builds a fragrant, hot base for dumplings or noodles
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Stir-fries & wok cooking – Flash-fried for instant heat and aroma
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Noodle soups & broths – Whole pods add depth and fire
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Sichuan hot pot – A signature chilli for classic spicy broth
Best used alongside garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorn for that iconic tingly burn.
Why Buy Facing Heaven Chillies from CHILLIESontheWEB?
We supply true Sichuan Facing Heaven chillies, carefully dried and packed for rich colour, clean heat, and full aroma. Our pods are uniform, potent and fragrant, perfect for chefs and chilli lovers looking to cook authentic Chinese dishes with serious heat and depth.
Facing Heaven is more than just a chilli — it’s a flavour foundation in Chinese cuisine. Keep a bag in your kitchen, and you’ll never cook stir-fry the same way again.