Espelette Pepper - 40g Jar

Who Am I?
Espelette Pepper, scientifically known as Capsicum annuum, is exclusively grown in the Basque Country around the village of Espelette, France. This pepper is famous for its perfect balance between heat and fruity, mildly smoky notes. The fine powder obtained after drying and grinding has a granularity of 0.1 to 1.0 mm and is characterized by a vibrant red color. With a heat level ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 on the Scoville scale, Espelette pepper provides moderate warmth, allowing it to gently enhance dishes without masking their original flavors. Since 2000, its cultivation has been protected by a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), ensuring its authenticity and quality.

Culinary Use
Espelette pepper is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. It can be used to spice up a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to sautéed vegetables, sauces, and even desserts. Often used as an alternative to black pepper in Basque cuisine, it finds its place in the preparation of the famous Basque chicken or in piperade, a type of spiced ratatouille. It can also be sprinkled on eggs, pizzas, and incorporated into marinades to add a touch of color and spice.

A Bit of History
Espelette pepper takes its name from the village of Espelette, where it has been an essential ingredient since the 16th century. It was introduced to Europe from the New World by Spanish explorers. Traditionally, houses in Espelette are decorated with strings of dried peppers, creating a visual spectacle during harvest season. Espelette pepper has enjoyed Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status since 2000, ensuring that only peppers grown in this specific region can be sold under this name.

Recipe Ideas