Padron Peppers

Christina and I were introduced to the wonderful Padron Peppers by our friends and farmer's market customers, Bob and Karen.  What are Padron Peppers you say?  And why should you give them a try?   Here's some information on this unique pepper:

The most fascinating pecularity of Padrón peppers is the Russian Roulette effect. Every batch of fifty peppers contains a hot one, and we mean really piquant!  Because it is impossible to distinguish the hot pepper from the milder pods, eating a portion of Padrón peppers is popularly linked to the Russian roulette game. The Spanish saying: "Pimiento de Padrón, pequeño pero matón", which translates roughly as "Padrón Pepper, a teeny-weeny thug", may give you some idea as to what you might expect when you enjoy a portion of these small green peppers. The native South Americans attributed aphrodisiac properties to the hot pepper.

These peppers are often served as tapas or appetizers.  They are very easy to prepare...add some good olive oil to a fry pan, heat, add peppers and saute until the peppers just starting to brown.  Remove peppers from pan, sprinkle with sea salt and serve.  

Independent analysis from food labs and nutritional experts agree Padrón peppers can be consumed as part of a healthy diet. A handfull of Padrón peppers count as one of the five recommended daily portions of fruit and vegetables. Their non-calorific value makes them an ideal snack. Padrón peppers contain vitamins A, B1, B2, C as well as calcium and iron. These peppers are also said to help with the following: The digestive system. Quicken scar tissue healing. Maintain good blood circulation. Reduce high blood pressure. Promote healthy cholesterol

Not bad, eh?  A vegetable that is fun, delicious and nutritious!

Source: http://www.padronpeppers.com/