14 February 2012

OS PIMIENTOS DE PADRON, UNS PICAN E OUTROS NON

I like gambling (socially, of course). And I also like messing with my friends (good-heartedly, of course).

These beauties are perfect for both of these satisfying urges.  Pimientos de Padron are small green peppers unique to Padron, north west Spain.  They are full of flavour with delicate flesh and a slightly sweet taste. And, for the exciting part, approximately one in ten (good odds, good odds...) are very spicy.  This key feature is what makes them an exciting dish to serve in the company of friends.

And just so you know, I am speaking from experience here, you simply cannot pick out the spicy ones.




padron 'roulette' peppers  
  250g Pimientos de Padron*
  vinagre de jerez | Spanish sherry vinegar
  olive oil
  coarse sea salt


Gently wipe the peppers clean with a damp cloth or paper towel.  Pour a few tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy based frying pan and fry the peppers over a high heat until the skin starts to blister.  Remove from heat once this happens (the peppers will swell up during cooking and look like they are not becoming tender, however once removed from the heat they will shrivel).


Place on a plate lined with paper towel to soak the excess olive oil.  Sprinkle with sea salt and a liberal splash of vinegar.  Lightly toss and serve while still hot.  Let the betting begin.

*these can be ordered from a Queensland grower at www.midyimeco.com.au

No comments: