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Blistered Shishito Peppers with Soy-Garlic Sesame Sauce Recipe

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4.3 from 51 reviews

This flavorful recipe features blistered shishito peppers, pan-seared to achieve a smoky char and tossed in a savory, garlicky sauce with soy, honey, and sesame. Perfect as a tasty appetizer or side dish, these peppers deliver a mild heat and a satisfying crunch topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and sesame seeds.

Ingredients

Peppers

  • ½ lb shishito peppers, washed and dried
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, grated
  • ½ teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Garnish

  • Flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Peppers: Wash and thoroughly dry the shishito peppers to ensure they blister properly during cooking. Remove any stems if desired for easier eating.
  2. Heat the Pan: Place a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil, allowing it to warm until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Blister the Peppers: Add the shishito peppers to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook, turning occasionally, until the skins are blistered and charred in spots, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, grated garlic, honey, and sesame oil, stirring until well mixed.
  5. Toss the Peppers with Sauce: Once blistered, reduce heat to medium-low and pour the sauce over the peppers in the pan. Toss gently to coat evenly and warm through for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Transfer the peppers to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and flaky sea salt if using. Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.

Notes

  • Shishito peppers are generally mild, but occasionally one can be spicy, so eat with a bit of caution.
  • Make sure the peppers are completely dry before cooking to achieve proper blistering.
  • For a smoky flavor, use toasted sesame oil or add a small pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor; leftover peppers can be reheated but may lose crispness.