Never had shishito peppers? You need to track them down. Right now.
Shishito peppers are small, thin Japanese peppers. They are a bit longer and thinner than a jalapeno. But the flavor is quite different. While jalapenos have thick flesh and an assertive heat, shishitos are thin skinned and generally sweeter than they are hot.
Except when they are not. For reasons that are debated online, one out of every dozen or so shishito peppers packs a punch. Nothing that will leave you gasping for air, but enough of a bite to wake you up.
During the past year or so, shishito peppers have become a darling of the restaurant scene. Nothing on the epic scale of ramps, which New York chefs in particular went a little crazy for a few years ago. And certainly nothing on the scale of the cupcake or slider. But they have been showing up on more and more menus across the country.
Shishito peppers generally are served as a starter, often heaped in a bowl and munched. And the prep couldn't be easier. They are cooked whole, usually with a splash of oil and just enough time in the skillet to lightly brown in spots. Seasonings can vary, though coarse salt is a must.
In addition to having a wonderfully addictive flavor the trinity of oil, salt and a gentle heat helps here shishito peppers are perfect for summer. They generally are shared, making them perfect for a backyard barbecue. And because they cook quickly and require intense heat, they adapt perfectly to the grill.
So here's my effort to get shishito peppers off the restaurant menus and into your summer grilling repertoire. I've tarted them up a bit with chopped almonds, but feel free to leave those off.
Grilled shishito peppers
1 pound shishito peppers, left whole
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, divided
1 tablespoon coarse or flake salt, such as Maldon or kosher
1/4 cup finely chopped almonds
Heat a grill to high.
In a large bowl, combine peppers and 1 tablespoon oil. Swirl and toss peppers until evenly coated with the oil.
Using tongs, arrange peppers on the grill so they lay across the direction of the grates (not with them). The goal is to prevent the peppers from falling through the grates.
Cook, turning often, until peppers begin to brown and blister, about 4 to 6 minutes.
Return peppers to the bowl (no need to wipe it out). Add the remaining oil, the salt and almonds, then toss well. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately.
Servings • 4
Source: The Associated Press