Pimientos de Padrón: A Classic Spanish Tapas
Pimientos de Padrón are small green peppers from the Padrón region of Spain, renowned for their rich flavor and a playful hint of heat, as some can be surprisingly spicy. These peppers are a staple in Spanish tapas bars and are celebrated for their simplicity and the excitement of finding the occasional hot one among mostly mild peers. Here’s a detailed recipe to preparing Pimientos de Padrón, an authentic Spanish snack or appetizer, perfect for four people.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Padrón peppers
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Coarse sea salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peppers:
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the Padrón peppers under cold water and dry them thoroughly with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture will help them blister properly when cooked.
2. Cook the Peppers:
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering.
- Add Peppers: Add the Padrón peppers to the skillet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook and Blister: Cook the peppers, stirring occasionally, until they are blistered and charred in spots, about 5-7 minutes. They should be tender but still have a bit of bite to them.
3. Season and Serve:
- Season: Remove the peppers from the skillet and transfer them to a serving plate. Immediately sprinkle them generously with coarse sea salt.
- Serve: Serve the Padrón peppers warm as a tapas dish. You can eat them whole, holding the stem and eating the rest of the pepper.
Tips:
- Unexpected Heat: While Padrón peppers are generally mild, the occasional pepper can be quite spicy. This unpredictability makes eating them a fun and exciting experience.
- Pairings: These peppers are perfect with other tapas such as chorizo, olives, and cheese. Pair them with a crisp, dry Spanish white wine or a light beer to complement their flavors.
- Variations: To add a twist, squeeze some fresh lemon over the peppers just before serving or drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a touch of sweetness to contrast the saltiness and heat.
- Cooking Technique: For an extra smoky flavor, consider cooking the peppers on a grill or a cast iron skillet to enhance their natural flavors.
Pimientos de Padrón are not only a quick and easy dish to prepare but also offer a delightful eating experience. They embody the essence of Spanish cuisine, focusing on high-quality, simple ingredients that deliver robust flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick snack, these peppers provide a taste of Spanish gastronomy that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of your homemade Pimientos de Padrón and watch as your guests relish in the delightful surprise of finding the occasional spicy one!
