NuMex Conquistador
No-heat New Mexican-type paprika chile developed by NMSU Chile Pepper Institute for consistent mild flavor in processed and fresh uses.
Growing
~90 days to maturity
Fruit size
15.7–17.8 cm
Flavor & Use
Clean, pleasant mild flavor ideal for paprika and applications requiring chile taste without heat.
Culinary
About
NuMex Conquistador is a non-pungent paprika-type chile pepper released in 1989. It originated as a single-plant selection from an open-pollinated population of the pungent New Mexican cultivar 'New Mexico 6-4', with non-pungency from a spontaneous mutation. Fruits have round shoulders, pointed tips, smooth surface, thick flesh, and two locules. Mean fruit length is 6.18 inches (15.7 cm), fruit width is 4.9 cm, fruit weight is 86 g, and wall thickness is 4.8 mm. Plants feature a single strong main stem with sturdy branches, averaging 29.5 inches (75 cm) tall and 25.6 inches (65 cm) wide. It offers high extractable red pigment and is recommended for paprika production in New Mexico. Green fruits are used for chiles rellenos with uniform heat levels from added fillings.
Backstory
Selected in the NMSU breeding program in Las Cruces from 'New Mexico 6-4' for its lack of pungency combined with high yield potential and superior red pigment for the local paprika industry. The non-pungent trait arose naturally via mutation in the parent population.
Appearance
Growing
Heritage
We don't have a documented family for this pepper yet.