If you're looking for a Low-calorie snack or a healthy addition to your dishes, look no further than Shishito Peppers. These small, thin-skinned peppers are often found in Japanese cuisine and pack a flavorful punch with just a little bit of heat. With only 15 calories per seven peppers (45 g), they make for a guilt-free snack or ingredient.

But Shishito Peppers offer much more than just a low-calorie count. They are also a great source of vitamins and minerals. A serving of seven peppers contains approximately 90% of your daily recommended amount of Vitamin C and 6% of your daily recommended amount of iron.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information and health benefits of Shishito Peppers, as well as offer tips on how to prepare and store them, popular recipes to try, and more ways to incorporate them into your diet.

What are Shishito peppers?

Shishito Peppers are a Japanese variety of pepper that are typically small, green, and wrinkled. They are usually harvested when they are young and mild, but occasionally, you may come across a spicy one. Shishito peppers have a thin skin and a unique combination of sweet and slightly bitter flavor. While they are often eaten as a snack, they can also be cooked in a variety of dishes, such as stir-fries and salads, or even grilled or roasted as a side dish.

Nutritional Information

As mentioned earlier, Shishito Peppers are low in calories, but high in nutrients. Here are some key nutritional facts for a serving of seven peppers (45 g): - Calories: 15 - Vitamin C: 81 mg, or approximately 90% of your daily recommended intake

Health Benefits

Thanks to their high vitamin and mineral content, Shishito Peppers offer several health benefits. Here are some of the potential benefits of eating Shishito peppers: - Boosting immune system: Vitamin C can help strengthen your immune system and protect against illness - Supporting digestion: peppers contain fiber, which can aid digestive health

How to prepare Shishito peppers

One of the reasons Shishito Peppers are so popular is their versatility in the kitchen. Here are some common ways to prepare Shishito peppers: - Blistered: Heat a skillet with a little bit of oil over high heat. Add the peppers and cook until the skin blisters and darkens. Serve with a drizzle of soy sauce or dipping sauce. - Grilled: Toss the peppers in olive oil and grill over high heat for a few minutes, until they are charred and slightly softened. Serve as a side dish or topping for burgers or sandwiches.

Popular Shishito pepper recipes

Need some inspiration for incorporating Shishito Peppers into your meals? Here are a few popular recipes to try: - Shishito Pepper & Beef Stir Fry - Blistered Shishito Peppers with Soy Sauce

Are Shishito peppers spicy?

While Shishito Peppers are typically mild, occasionally you may come across a spicy one. The heat level can vary depending on factors such as soil conditions and growing season. If you are sensitive to spicy foods, you may want to taste one pepper first before eating a whole serving.

Shishito peppers vs Jalapenos

Jalapenos and Shishito Peppers may look similar, but they have distinct flavor profiles and heat levels. While jalapenos are well-known for their spicy kick, Shishito peppers are typically milder and have a sweet and slightly bitter flavor. If you want a little bit of heat, go for the jalapeno, but if you want a more nuanced taste, try the Shishito pepper.

Where to buy Shishito peppers

You can find Shishito Peppers at some grocery stores and specialty stores, particularly those that carry Asian ingredients. They are also available at farmers' markets and through online retailers. Look for peppers that are firm and without any signs of mold or shriveling to ensure freshness.

Storing Shishito peppers

To keep your Shishito Peppers fresh for longer, store them in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or airtight container. If you have a large quantity, you can also freeze them for later use. To freeze, blanch the peppers in boiling water for a minute, then shock them in cold water. Dry them thoroughly and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to six months in the freezer.

How to incorporate Shishito peppers into your diet

There are many ways to enjoy Shishito Peppers, whether as a snack or as an ingredient in your dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started: - Blistered Shishito peppers: as mentioned earlier, blistered Shishito peppers make for a great appetizer or side dish. Serve with a dipping sauce or sprinkle with coarse salt. - Shishito pepper & veggie stir fry: use Shishito peppers in a stir-fry with other Vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, and snap peas. Serve over rice or quinoa for a healthy, filling meal.