Northern Mariana Islands

In the Northern Mariana Islands, hot peppers are widely grown in home gardens and small plots. The most iconic is donne’ sali, a small, very hot bird’s eye–type Capsicum frutescens also known across Micronesia, alongside long green chilies and imported jalapeños. Donne’ sali is central to local sauces: chopped with soy, vinegar, or lemon into finadene (Finadeni), a ubiquitous condiment for grilled meats, fish, and rice.

Little formal industry exists, but some small businesses jar chili sauces and pickles for local sale. Imports of Asian and US hot sauces supplement local production. Donne’ sali delivers searing, focused heat and a slight fruitiness that defines Chamorro and Carolinian flavour profiles.