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The journey began with a visit to Smok and Ed Curry’s pepper farm, the man behind both Pepper X and the notorious Carolina Reaper. Ed, known for his passion for heat, guided the enthusiastic contestants through his field, showcasing various hot pepper varieties. The aim was to select the right peppers that balanced heat with flavor — a task that is easier said than done.
As they wandered among these fiery plants, contestants were introduced to the overwhelming sensation of touching and tasting the peppers, which ignited a mix of excitement and trepidation. Ed emphasized the importance of flavor; a great hot sauce isn't just about the burn but the underlying taste.