Hot pepper 'Shishito' organic

Organic 'Shishito' hot pepper ( Capsicum annuum ) from the seed company Gaia, a Japanese sweet treat with a slight spiciness

The 'Shishito' pepper is a traditional Japanese variety , prized for its mild, sweet flavor , with a slightly smoky hint when roasted. Its small, elongated fruits , 2 to 3 inches (5–8 cm), are harvested green and are distinguished by their thin, wrinkled skin . Traditionally prepared pan-fried or tempura-style , they offer a unique culinary experience , especially since one in ten peppers can be mildly spicy , adding an element of surprise to every bite.

Did you know?

Shishito gets its name from the Japanese word shishi (lion), because its pleated end resembles a lion's mouth . Very popular in Japan and Korea, it is often served as an appetizer , simply sautéed with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Its very low spiciness ( 50 to 200 SHU ) makes it a pepper accessible to all , perfect for discovering the flavors of the slightly spicy sweet pepper.

Spread: Bushy and productive habit
Plant height: 50 to 80 cm
Quantity per pack: ± 25 seeds
Companion plants: Alliums, basil, tomato, spinach, oregano, marjoram, nasturtium, marigold
Enemy plants: Beans, brassicas, fennel
Scoville Scale (SHU): 50 - 200

Cultivation method

Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before planting out . Maintain a temperature of 27-31°C to ensure rapid and uniform germination (7-21 days). Harden off plants gradually to 18-19°C before transplanting into the ground or pots. Plant 0.5 cm (1/4") deep , spacing plants 30-45 cm (12-18") apart and rows 60-75 cm (24-30") apart. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil for optimum production.

Harvesting and storage

Harvest peppers while they are still green , before they ripen to red, to maintain their mild flavor and tender texture . Regular picking encourages continued production . Store them at 10-12°C , with a relative humidity of 95% , for optimal storage.

Ideas for use in the garden and kitchen

• Pan-fry them with a little oil and salt for an authentic Japanese appetizer.
• Prepare them in tempura for a crispy and tasty touch.
• Add them to grilled foods for a slightly smoky, caramelized flavor.
• Stuff them with cheese or miso , then grill them for a twist.

With its delicate flavor , its slight random spiciness and its great ease of cultivation , the 'Shishito' Pepper is perfect for lovers of Asian cuisine and gourmet appetizers !