This article provides an overview of peperoncino, what it tastes like, its availability, alternative names, and of course what other ingredients make peperoncino substitutes.
What is Peperoncino?
Peperoncino is the generic name for a hot chili pepper in the Italian language, specifically the regional cultivars of the chili pepper and the tabasco pepper. Peperoncino, like other chili peppers, is green or yellow when young and ripens to a rich red color once mature.
Peperoncino is often eaten whole, sliced, or chopped and is often sold pickled, crushed, or powdered. Peperoncino is especially important in Calabrian cuisines and there is even an annual festival to celebrate the pepper.
What does Peperoncino taste like?
Peperoncino is rather mild in heat and the flavor is seen to be more important than the actual heat. The flavor can be described as slightly sweet and tangy, with vinegary undertones.
Is Peperoncino readily available in Supermarkets?
Peperoncino should be available in major supermarkets, where they are often sold in a paste or in a pickled form. In Italy or in specialty Italian stores, you should be able to purchase various forms of pepperoncini, including dried.
What are some alternative names for Peperoncino?
Peperoncino may be referred to as peperoncini, which is the plural name in Italian. In the English language, peperoncino is most commonly referred to as hot chili pepper.
What is a good substitute for Peperoncino in recipes?
Luckily, there are a number of great substitutes for peperoncino. These include gluten-free alternatives such as:
- The best substitute for peperoncino would be banana peppers, cherry peppers, Anaheim peppers, poblano peppers or jalapeño peppers.
- If using the dried form, any dried chili works well, such as Cayenne or Mirasol
- If fresh, Yellow Chilies also work well