Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with a simple yet incredibly flavorful ingredient? Look no further than Calabrian chili paste! This vibrant, spicy condiment adds a depth of flavor to everything from pasta sauces and pizzas to roasted vegetables and grilled meats. Making your own Calabrian hot pepper paste is surprisingly easy and far more rewarding than buying store-bought versions. This homemade recipe lets you control the spice level, ensuring a perfect kick tailored to your taste. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Calabrian chili peppers (or a mix of Calabrian and other hot peppers for varied heat), stemmed and roughly chopped
- 2 cups extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Peppers
Handling hot peppers requires caution! Wear gloves to avoid skin irritation. Remove the stems from the Calabrian chili peppers. You can leave the seeds in for maximum heat, or remove some for a milder paste. Roughly chop the peppers.
Step 2: Sautéing the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, gently sauté the minced garlic in a tablespoon of the olive oil for about a minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Simmering the Peppers
Add the chopped Calabrian peppers to the skillet. Pour in the remaining olive oil. Stir well, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or until the peppers are very soft and have released their oils. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Blending the Paste
Once the peppers are completely soft, carefully transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender. Add the salt and oregano. Blend until you achieve your desired consistency—a smooth paste or a slightly chunky one, depending on your preference.
Step 5: Storage
Transfer the Calabrian chili paste to a clean, airtight jar. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 6 months. The flavor will deepen over time, so don't be afraid to let it age a bit!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by removing more or fewer seeds from the peppers. For a milder paste, use less Calabrian chili and add some milder peppers like bell peppers.
- Oil Type: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Adding Flavor: Experiment with adding other herbs and spices, such as smoked paprika, fennel seeds, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Roasted Peppers: For a deeper, smoky flavor, roast the peppers in the oven before blending.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Fat: Mostly unsaturated fat from olive oil
- Protein: Negligible
- Carbohydrates: Low
- Fiber: Moderate, depending on the amount of seeds included.
This homemade Calabrian hot pepper paste is a fantastic way to add a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes. It's a versatile ingredient that’s perfect for busy weeknights and impressive dinner parties alike. Enjoy experimenting with this delicious and easy recipe! It’s a truly rewarding experience to create something so flavorful from simple ingredients, providing a delicious and healthy addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. This easy recipe will quickly become a staple in your pantry!