Japanese Grilled Shishito Peppers with Bonito Flakes

Introduction

Shishito peppers are a delightful Japanese appetizer, offering a mild, smoky flavor with an occasional spicy bite. Grilling them on the Arteflame grill enhances their taste with a perfect, blistered char. The addition of bonito flakes brings umami depth, making this dish a simple yet flavorful snack or side. Ready in minutes, these Japanese-style grilled shishito peppers will impress your guests with their smoky aroma and irresistible flavor.

Ingredients

• 12 oz shishito peppers
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 cup bonito flakes
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the paper.
4. Light the napkins and allow the fire to develop. The grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Cooktop

1. Once the fire is established, allow the flat cooktop to reach medium-high heat.
2. Place the shishito peppers near the center where it's hottest but not directly over an open flame.

Step 3: Grill the Shishito Peppers

1. Spread the shishito peppers in a single layer on the griddle.
2. Add the unsalted butter to the peppers and allow it to melt.
3. Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper over the peppers.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the peppers are blistered and slightly charred.

Step 4: Finish with Bonito Flakes

1. Drizzle the soy sauce and optional toasted sesame oil over the grilled shishito peppers.
2. Remove the peppers from the grill and place them on a serving plate.
3. Sprinkle with bonito flakes. The heat from the peppers will slightly curl the flakes, enhancing their flavor.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds, if using.

Tips

• For best results, use fresh shishito peppers; they should be firm and bright green.
• Keep an eye on them as they cook quickly and can burn if not turned frequently.
• For extra heat, add a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes or spice-infused soy sauce.
• Pair them with a cold Japanese beer for the ultimate experience.
• Always remove your meat or vegetables from the grill slightly before your desired doneness, as they continue cooking after removal.

Variations

1. Garlic Butter Shishito Peppers: Add minced garlic to the butter for an aromatic twist.
2. Spicy Sriracha Peppers: Toss in a drizzle of Sriracha sauce before serving for extra heat.
3. Miso Glazed Peppers: Mix miso paste with soy sauce for extra umami flavor.
4. Citrus Soy Shishito: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a fresh, zesty contrast.
5. Sesame Tamari Peppers: Replace soy sauce with tamari and top with roasted sesame seeds.

Best Pairings

• Chilled Japanese Sapporo or Asahi beer
• A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or light-bodied sake
• Grilled teriyaki chicken or salmon
• Steamed white rice with furikake seasoning

Conclusion

Grilling shishito peppers on the Arteflame grill brings out their natural smokiness and creates a delicious umami-packed dish. Whether served as a snack or a side, this easy recipe will become a favorite at your cookouts. Try the variations for different flavor profiles!