Are you ready to ignite your taste buds? Shishito peppers, also known as Japanese frying peppers, have taken the culinary world by storm with their sweet and smoky flavor. When cooked, these small peppers transform into a deliciously spicy treat that adds excitement to any dish. In this article, we’re pushing the boundaries of traditional Shishito pepper recipes by adding unique twists and flavors to create 18 mouth-watering dishes.
From classic tempura to innovative stir-fries, and from savory pizzas to bold salsas, we’ve got you covered with a range of recipes that will take your cooking to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these Shishito pepper creations are sure to inspire your creativity in the kitchen.
Blistered Shishito Peppers with Garlic Aioli
Shishito peppers are a Japanese delight that packs a punch – literally! When cooked, they burst into flavorful, slightly sweet, and fiery explosions. Pair them with creamy garlic aioli for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Shishito peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place Shishito peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle salt over the peppers.
4. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until blistered and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, mix garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and parsley in a bowl.
6. Remove peppers from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Serve with garlic aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Shishito Pepper Tempura with Soy Dipping Sauce
Experience the crispy delight of Japanese tempura with this simple recipe featuring Shishito peppers and a savory soy dipping sauce. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Shishito peppers
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
– Soy Dipping Sauce (see below)
Soy Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour and soda water to make batter.
2. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Dip each Shishito pepper into the batter, letting excess drip off.
4. Fry battered peppers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve immediately with Soy Dipping Sauce (whisk all ingredients together).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Grilled Shishito Peppers with Lemon Zest
Elevate your snack game with these addictive grilled shishito peppers, elevated by a burst of citrusy flavor from lemon zest. Perfect for a quick appetizer or as a flavorful addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint Shishito peppers
– 2 lemons
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the stems off the peppers, leaving them intact. Place them on a plate or tray.
3. Zest one lemon, then cut it in half. Juice the other lemon half for serving (optional).
4. Brush both sides of the peppers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill the peppers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop nice char marks and start to soften.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle the grilled peppers with lemon zest. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side (if using).
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Bacon Skewers
Elevate your snack game with these addictive skewers featuring sweet and spicy shishito peppers, crispy bacon, and a hint of smokiness. Perfect for parties or as a quick appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 shishito peppers
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the shishito peppers into 1-inch pieces, removing stems and seeds.
3. Cook the bacon slices until crispy, then chop into small pieces.
4. Alternate placing pepper and bacon pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any additional desired seasonings.
6. Grill or cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until peppers are slightly charred and tender.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Spicy Shishito Pepper Salsa
This vibrant salsa is a flavorful twist on traditional salsas, featuring the sweet and spicy peppers of Japan – Shishito peppers. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies, this recipe is sure to add a kick to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Shishito peppers
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Roast the Shishito peppers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until charred and slightly softened.
2. Remove the stems and seeds from the roasted peppers, then chop into small pieces.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped peppers, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir well to combine and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (roasting)
Total Time: 40-50 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This Asian-inspired stir-fry combines the subtle heat of Shishito peppers with succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup Shishito peppers, sliced into thin rings
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the sliced Shishito peppers and minced garlic. Cook until the peppers are slightly charred and tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan with the soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Shishito Peppers with Sea Salt
Bring out the natural sweetness of Shishito peppers by roasting them to perfection and seasoning with a touch of sea salt. This simple recipe makes for a delicious and addictive snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Shishito peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the peppers, remove stems and any seeds.
3. Place the peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with sea salt.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your roasted Shishito peppers as a snack, side dish, or add to salads, sandwiches, or wraps!
Shishito Pepper and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the spicy kick of Shishito peppers, all wrapped up in a creamy cheese filling. Perfect for a party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup Shishito peppers, sliced into thin rings
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cheese, butter, and Shishito pepper rings until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
4. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Avocado Salad
This vibrant salad combines the subtle heat of Shishito peppers with the creamy richness of avocado, perfect for a light and refreshing snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Shishito peppers, sliced into thin rings
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the Shishito pepper rings, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep only)
Shishito Pepper Pizza with Goat Cheese
Elevate your pizza game with this unique and flavorful combination of sweet goat cheese, spicy shishito peppers, and crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 12-15 shishito peppers, sliced into rings
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
3. Spread goat cheese crumbles evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange shishito pepper rings on top of goat cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Pork Dumplings
This recipe combines the flavors of tender pork dumplings with the subtle spiciness of Shishito peppers, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 20-25 Shishito peppers, sliced
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cups water
– Dumpling wrappers (about 40-50)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped scallions, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Lay a dumpling wrapper on a flat surface. Place a tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a half-moon shape, sealing the edges with water.
4. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the dumplings for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Add sliced Shishito peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve the dumplings hot with steamed bok choy or your favorite accompaniment.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shishito Pepper Pasta with Chili Oil
This recipe combines the bold flavors of shishito peppers with the comforting warmth of pasta, all tied together with a spicy kick from chili oil. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/4 cup shishito peppers, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chili oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the chili oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced shishito peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes or until slightly charred.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the pepper and garlic mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters combine the sweetness of corn and the subtle heat of Shishito peppers for a unique snack or appetizer. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or as a side dish for your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup corn kernels
– 12-15 Shishito peppers, sliced into rings
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and cheese.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in corn kernels and Shishito pepper rings.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Tofu Tacos
This recipe combines the smoky heat of Shishito peppers with the creaminess of pan-seared tofu, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 12-15 Shishito peppers, stemmed and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté the Shishito peppers until charred and slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by placing the tofu, Shishito peppers, onion, and cumin on each tortilla. Squeeze with lime juice and season to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Chicken Yakitori
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this simple yet addictive recipe that combines tender chicken skewers with sweet and spicy shishito peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 12-15 shishito peppers, stems removed and sliced into strips
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic powder. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread chicken and shishito pepper strips onto skewers.
4. Brush with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and peppers are slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Scallion Pancakes
Savor the savory-sweet combination of crispy pancakes filled with spicy Shishito peppers and scallions. These addictive treats are perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 Shishito peppers, sliced into rings
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Brush pancakes with vegetable oil and top with Shishito pepper rings, chopped scallions, and beaten egg.
6. Fold the pancake in half to enclose filling. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Miso Soup
This recipe combines the subtle sweetness of Shishito peppers with the rich umami flavor of miso, creating a comforting and savory soup perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Shishito peppers
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Shishito peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in the miso paste and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Beef Skewers with Teriyaki Glaze
Elevate your BBQ game with these flavorful skewers that combine the smoky sweetness of Shishito peppers with tender beef and a sticky teriyaki glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 20-25 Shishito peppers, sliced into 1/2-inch rings
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef and Shishito peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the skewers.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until beef reaches desired doneness.
6. Serve hot with additional teriyaki glaze for dipping.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these creative Shishito pepper recipes! From classic blistered peppers with garlic aioli to innovative dishes like Shishito and bacon skewers, or Spicy Salsa, there’s something for every palate. Also explore international flavors such as Japanese-inspired Shrimp Stir-Fry, Korean-style Chicken Yakitori, and savory Miso Soup. For a sweet treat, try stuffing mushrooms with cheese and Shishito peppers, or making crispy Shishito and corn fritters. Whatever your taste buds crave, this collection of 18 spicy recipes is sure to ignite your passion for cooking!
