Shishito peppers have gained popularity in recent years for their mild, slightly sweet flavor and easy preparation. These small, green peppers, native to Japan, are mostly mild with a hint of sweetness, but about 1 in 10 peppers carries a bit of a spicy kick, making eating them a fun and unexpected experience. If you’re looking for a quick and versatile vegetable to add to your repertoire, Shishito peppers are the way to go.
In this article, we’ll explore some simple but delicious ways to cook Shishito peppers and share tips for getting the perfect char, the best dipping sauces, and how to pair them with other dishes. You’ll also find plenty of ways to customize this recipe to suit your tastes.
For more vegetable-forward recipes, check out this flavorful Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe on Vicky’s Recipes.
Why Cook with Shishito Peppers?
There are many reasons why Shishito peppers are a go-to ingredient for quick appetizers or side dishes:
- Versatile Preparation: Whether you blister them in a pan, roast them in the oven, or grill them, Shishito peppers can be cooked quickly and paired with various dips or sauces.
- Mild Flavor: Their mild and slightly sweet flavor means they can be enjoyed by those who don’t like a lot of spice. That said, the occasional spicy pepper adds a bit of fun.
- Nutritional Benefits: Shishito peppers are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of peppers from Healthline.
- Quick Cooking: These peppers cook fast, making them a perfect option for busy weeknight meals or a quick snack.
If you’re already a fan of simple, flavorful dishes, you may want to try this Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe for another easy dinner option.
Blistered Shishito Peppers Recipe
Blistered Shishito peppers are a crowd favorite. The heat from a skillet or grill adds a smoky flavor and a soft texture while keeping the pepper’s mild sweetness. Here’s how to prepare them perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of Shishito peppers
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the pan: Place a large skillet (preferably cast iron) on medium-high heat.
- Add the oil: Once the skillet is hot, add the olive oil, allowing it to heat for a few seconds.
- Blister the peppers: Add the Shishito peppers in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are blistered and slightly charred.
- Season: Remove from the skillet, sprinkle with sea salt, and serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.
For a twist, try adding some soy sauce and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired take on this simple dish.
Looking for another quick side dish to complement this? Try the tangy Tteokbokki Recipe for something with a bit more spice.
Roasted Shishito Peppers with Garlic Aioli
Roasting Shishito peppers in the oven brings out their natural sweetness and allows you to cook them hands-off. Serve them with garlic aioli for a rich, creamy dip that pairs perfectly with the mild flavor of the peppers.
Ingredients for Roasted Shishito Peppers:
- 2 cups Shishito peppers
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sea salt and black pepper
Ingredients for Garlic Aioli:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the peppers: Toss the Shishito peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet.
- Roast: Bake for 10-12 minutes, shaking the tray halfway through, until the peppers are soft and charred.
- Make the aioli: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Serve: Pair the roasted peppers with the garlic aioli as a dipping sauce.
If you enjoy creamy dips, check out this guide on how to make garlic aioli from scratch from Serious Eats.
Creative Shishito Pepper Variations
Shishito peppers are incredibly adaptable and can be incorporated into many dishes. Here are a few ideas for adding them to your next meal.
Shishito Pepper Tempura
For a crispy take on Shishito peppers, tempura batter gives these mild peppers a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup tempura batter mix
- 1 cup ice-cold water
- 2 cups Shishito peppers
- Oil for frying
- Sea salt for seasoning
Instructions:
- Prepare the tempura batter by mixing the tempura batter mix with ice-cold water.
- Heat oil in a large skillet to 350°F.
- Dip each pepper into the tempura batter and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and season with sea salt.
This crispy dish is perfect for an appetizer or a fun side at a party.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Shishito Peppers
While Shishito peppers are easy to cook, there are a few common mistakes that can diminish their flavor and texture:
- Overcooking: If the peppers are cooked for too long, they can become mushy. Aim for a quick char over high heat.
- Under-seasoning: Don’t forget to season them after cooking. A pinch of sea salt or a dash of soy sauce can go a long way in enhancing the flavor.
- Not using enough heat: High heat is key to getting that signature blistered skin. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the peppers will steam instead of blister, leaving them soft and lacking texture.
For more tips on cooking techniques, you can explore How to Make Chicken More Tender and Juicy.
FAQs About Shishito Peppers
Are Shishito peppers spicy?
Most Shishito peppers are mild, but about 1 in 10 can be slightly spicy. The unexpected kick adds excitement to the dish.
Can you eat Shishito pepper seeds?
Yes, the seeds inside Shishito peppers are soft and entirely edible, so there’s no need to remove them.
What’s the best way to cook Shishito peppers?
Blistering in a hot skillet is the most common method, but you can also roast or grill them for a slightly different flavor profile.
Do Shishito peppers need to be peeled?
No, the thin skin of Shishito peppers softens during cooking, so there’s no need to peel them.
How long do Shishito peppers last in the fridge?
Raw Shishito peppers can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. Once cooked, they should be eaten within 2-3 days for the best flavor.
Conclusion
Shishito peppers are a versatile, easy-to-prepare ingredient that can be incorporated into all sorts of dishes. Whether you enjoy them blistered with sea salt, roasted with garlic aioli, or fried tempura-style, they are sure to add flavor and fun to your meals. With their mild taste and occasional spicy surprise, Shishito peppers make for a great appetizer or side dish.
For more flavorful recipes, check out this Philadelphia Cheesecake Recipe for a sweet way to finish your meal. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with Shishito peppers in your kitchen!