Blistered Shishito Peppers with Soy-Garlic Sesame Sauce Recipe

If you are a fan of simple yet irresistible bites that burst with flavor, then this Blistered Shishito Peppers with Soy-Garlic Sesame Sauce Recipe is going to be your new go-to snack or appetizer. These little peppers are mild with an occasional pop of heat, perfectly complemented by a savory-sweet soy-garlic sesame sauce that clings to every blistered nook and cranny. It’s the kind of dish that feels both comfortingly familiar and delightfully exotic, making it perfect for casual gatherings or elevating your weeknight meals. You’ll love how effortlessly these peppers transform with just a handful of ingredients and a few moments in the pan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of this dish fool you—each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and stunning presentation. From the mild heat of the shishito peppers to the nutty crunch of sesame seeds, here’s everything you’ll want to have on hand.

• ½ lb shishito peppers: Fresh and washed, these mild peppers blister beautifully and offer tender bites with an occasional spicy surprise.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: A neutral oil perfect for blistering the peppers quickly without overpowering their natural taste.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Provides that deep, umami backbone to the sauce, balancing savoriness with subtle saltiness.
• 2 cloves garlic, grated: Fresh garlic adds a bright and pungent punch that makes the sauce pop.
• ½ teaspoon honey: Just a touch of sweetness to mellow the soy sauce and lift the garlic flavors.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Rich and fragrant, this oil brings a toasty warmth that ties the sauce together beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds: Adds a lovely crunch and nutty aroma for extra dimension.
• Flaky sea salt (optional): A final sprinkle that enhances flavors and adds a delightful crunch contrast.

How to Make Blistered Shishito Peppers with Soy-Garlic Sesame Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing the soy sauce, grated garlic, honey, sesame oil, and sesame seeds in a small bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish—simple but packed with flavor. Let it sit while you blister the peppers so the garlic can infuse the mixture beautifully.

Step 2: Blister the Peppers

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the shishito peppers in a single layer and cook without stirring for about 2-3 minutes to get a nice char on one side. Then toss or flip them and cook for another 2 minutes or until they show several blackened spots and are tender but still have a slight bite.

Step 3: Toss Peppers with the Sauce

Remove the skillet from heat and immediately drizzle the prepared soy-garlic sesame sauce over the blistered peppers. Toss gently to coat each pepper thoroughly, ensuring the sauce clings to every blistered crevice. This final step amplifies all the flavors and gives the dish its signature glaze.

How to Serve Blistered Shishito Peppers with Soy-Garlic Sesame Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before serving for that irresistible crunch and added burst of flavor. You can also toss in a few toasted sesame seeds or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add brightness and an extra layer of freshness.

Side Dishes

These blistered shishito peppers shine as a side for grilled meats, rice bowls, or noodle dishes. Pairing them with steamed jasmine rice or a light cucumber salad enhances their vibrant taste and makes for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these peppers on a rustic wooden board alongside dipping sauces for a casual party appetizer, or pile them high in a pretty bowl with some toothpicks for easy snacking. You can even chop them roughly and add to tacos or Asian-inspired flatbreads for an unexpected, delightful kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover blistered shishito peppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the peppers and sauce combined for the best flavor retention and just warm them slightly before serving.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze this dish as the texture of the peppers can become mushy after thawing. The fresh blistered quality is what makes this recipe stand out, so enjoying it promptly is ideal.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the peppers gently over medium heat in a skillet to revive their tender-crisp texture and reawaken the sauce’s aroma. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can wilt the peppers unevenly.

FAQs

Are shishito peppers spicy?

Shishito peppers are typically mild, but you might find an occasional spicy one—about one in ten. That surprise kick adds a fun element to this dish!

Can I use a different oil than vegetable oil?

Yes, a light oil like canola or grapeseed works well. Avoid strong-flavored oils as they can overpower the delicate pepper taste.

How do I grate garlic properly for the sauce?

Use the fine side of a microplane or grater to get a smooth garlic paste that blends nicely into the sauce without big chunks.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To keep it gluten-free, choose a soy sauce labeled gluten-free or tamari, which tastes similar but contains no gluten.

Can I roast shishito peppers instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Roasting at high heat creates a slightly different but equally delicious blister. Just toss them with oil and roast at 450°F until blistered and tender.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Blistered Shishito Peppers with Soy-Garlic Sesame Sauce Recipe a try—it’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re snacking solo, entertaining friends, or adding a special touch to dinner, these peppers deliver pleasure in every bite. So grab some shishitos, whip up that easy sauce, and enjoy the magic of blistered perfection!

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