Melagueta pepper are a type of hot pepper commonly used in Brazilian and West African cuisine. The pepper is also known as piri piri, African bird's eye pepper, or bukka pepper. These synonyms all refer to the spicy, small, and tapered pepper that ranges in color from yellow to red. Another synonym for melagueta pepper is malagueta pepper, which is commonly used in Portuguese cuisine and has a slightly milder taste. These peppers are often used in sauces, marinades, and seasoning blends to add heat and flavor to dishes such as stews, soups, and grilled meats.