Manzano Pepper

This golf ball sized hot pepper with it distinctive black seeds rates higher than a Serrano on the Scoville heat index. Mainly used for fresh salsas, once i removed the seeds it tasted like a yellow bell pepper but not as sweet with a nice mild heat. Found at the Santa Barbara farmers market. photo by chris mathews

Red Guajes / Leucaena

The seeds of the guaje can be eaten raw or roasted with salt. They are also used in making a mole or ground into a powder with cheese and used as a seasoning. These guy although a little over mature left their distinctive bitter slightly garlicky flavor in my mouth for at least 24 hours. found on the tree in mission viejo ca. photo by chris mathews

Jackfruit

The largest of the tree born fruit, Jackfruit can weight up to 100lb (mine weighed about 10). Once you get through the meat like butchering process the fruit reveals a deliciously sweet firm chewy flesh that tastes like juicy fruit gum. Found at Ranch 99 market in Irvine Ca. photo by Chris Mathews