Peperoncini is a staple, pickled pepper for many households across the country and world. You’ve likely seen it as an option at sandwich shops, in Italian and Greek cuisine, and maybe even as a special treat in a pizza box…The pairings are endless. But do you know exactly what it is? Let’s take a closer look at this household favorite.
Peperoncini 101
While peperoncinis are largely popular in both Italian and Greek cuisine, the peperoncini was founded in Greece many centuries ago. They are also native to Italy, though, which is why they are a staple for Italian cuisine too. In the world of spicy peppers, this one is very mild. Compared to the jalapeño, it is 5 to 500 times milder, with Scoville heat units of 100-500. It tastes briny, tangy, and most of all, vinegary, and measures at around 2-3 inches long.
How are Peperoncinis Consumed
The most common way that you will see peperoncini peppers is pickled. This makes the peppers a bit less sweet, and a bit more tangy. However, people do eat these peppers raw as well. You may see these on a charcuterie board, chopped up into a salad, or just snacked on. You can find peperoncinis in the condiment aisle or the Italian food section of the grocery store.
Are They Related to the Banana Pepper?
Both pepper variations have a bright yellow color and similar shapes, however they have quite a few differences. The banana pepper is a bit longer and smoother, whereas the peperoncini is short with wrinkly skin. Their taste profile is pretty similar, but peperoncini is a bit spicier. Banana peppers also hail from Hungary, not the Mediterranean.
Best Recipes for Peperoncini
There are several staple dishes that are greatly enhanced by a peperoncini. You can also try any of the following dishes with a new household staple, the Cini sauce. Promising all of the same taste, but in a convenient sauce form.
- Staple addition to Antipasto platters – add a few whole peperoncinis for your guests to enjoy.
- Spicy Shredded Beef Sandwiches – the sliced peperoncinis are typically under the melted cheese.
- A spin on salsa – in a four-tomato salsa, adding cubed peperoncini enhances the flavor, your guests will be asking about it.
- Stuffed peperoncini – similar to jalapeño poppers – stuff your peperoncinis with cream cheese and bacon for a unique take on a familiar classic
- Make a relish – combine peperoncini, onion, jalapeños, and yellow and red peppers for a spin to traditional relish.
- Fried peperoncinis – similar to a fried pickle, slice your peperoncini, bread them and fry until golden brown.
Try the Cini Sauce
If you’re a fan of Peperoncini, then you’d be happy to know a vision and a blender came together to make a new condiment staple. Check out our FAQs page for everything you need to know about our amazing new sauce.
Cini Sauce isn’t just a condiment; it’s a lifestyle for those brave enough to spice up their meals. So, whether you’re a peperoncini fanatic or just looking to add some zing to your life, grab a bottle. Because life’s too short for bland food, so bring that #CiniZing!
