Peperone di Senise

Peperone di Senise

The Peperone di Senise is a type of chili pepper that originates from the Basilicata region of southern Italy, specifically from the town of Senise. It is known for its unique sweet flavor and is a staple ingredient in many traditional Italian dishes.

History

The cultivation of the Peperone di Senise dates back to the 17th century. It was introduced to the region by Spanish colonizers and quickly became a popular crop due to its adaptability to the local climate and soil conditions.

Characteristics

The Peperone di Senise is characterized by its long, thin shape and bright red color when ripe. It measures between 10 and 15 centimeters in length and about 3 centimeters in diameter. Unlike most chili peppers, the Peperone di Senise is not spicy. Instead, it has a sweet, mild flavor that is often compared to that of bell peppers.

Cultivation

The Peperone di Senise is typically sown in the spring and harvested in the late summer or early fall. It is a hardy plant that can withstand both high temperatures and periods of drought, making it well-suited to the climate of southern Italy.

Culinary Uses

The Peperone di Senise is used in a variety of Italian dishes. It can be eaten fresh, but is often dried and ground into a powder known as peperone dolce or sweet pepper. This powder is used as a seasoning in pasta dishes, soups, and stews. The peppers can also be pickled or preserved in oil for use in antipasti and other appetizers.

Protected Designation of Origin

In 1996, the Peperone di Senise was granted Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status by the European Union. This means that only peppers grown in the designated area around Senise can be labeled as Peperone di Senise.

See Also

• Italian Cuisine
• Basilicata
• Protected Designation of Origin

References

• Slow Food Foundation
• Italian Food Net