Manganji sweet peppers are a distinctive Kyoto vegetable known for their unusually large size, thick and tender flesh, and natural sweetness. They contain relatively few seeds, making them easy to prepare and enjoy.
Manganji peppers originated in the late Taisho period (1912–1926) in Manganji, Maizuru City. They were developed by crossing Fushimi peppers, a traditional Kyoto variety, with a large pepper variety of foreign origin.
For many years, they were grown on a small scale for local household consumption. Around two decades before the source article was written, cultivation expanded as they became recognized as a regional specialty, and shipments to Kyoto’s markets began to increase. Today, they are grown throughout Maizuru City.
In 1989, Manganji peppers became one of the first products certified under Kyoto Prefecture’s regional branding initiative. Their popularity has since become firmly established.
Measuring approximately 14–17 cm long, Manganji peppers have an impressive appearance that has earned them a reputation as the king of peppers. Despite their size, they have a tender, thick texture, a distinctive fragrance, and a pleasantly sweet flavor without the strong grassy taste associated with some peppers. Their low seed content makes them especially easy to eat.
June to August