Spice Origins: A very hot variety of the capsicum chili pepper brought to West Africa by the 15th century Portuguese traders who gave it this Portuguese name. This spice is a very hot pungent chili pepper. Used in spice blends and mixes. Spice Description African Bird Pepper (Capsicum annum), comes in at a scorching 150,000 Scoville Heat Units. Culinary Uses. Try a heaping spoonful in corned beef hash or rice and beans for a fiery endorphin rush. Used as a substitute for cayenne as it is more flavorful.