Pimientos de Padron

Pimientos de Padron is one of the most popular tapas dishes in Spain. You will find it on menus across the country. It is loved for its simple flavour and fun surprise. Pimientos de Padron is made from small green peppers. They are mild most of the time. But sometimes one is very hot. This is why people say, “Some are spicy, some are not.” They may not be the fanciest looking dish, but they are one of my favourites. With a cool drink, friends and laughter, there is nothing better.

The peppers are cooked whole. They are fried quickly in hot olive oil. This makes the skin blister and soften. Once cooked, they are drained and sprinkled with coarse sea salt. Nothing else is added. This keeps the dish fresh and natural. It is best served hot from the fryer. It is shared at the table with drinks.

The peppers come from the town of Padron, Galicia, in the north west of Spain. It sits near the river Ulla. The area has rich soil and mild weather. These conditions are perfect for growing peppers. The local farmers have grown them for many years. The peppers are small and thin skinned. This gives them their soft texture.

Padron also hosts a festival to celebrate the pepper. It is called the Fiesta de Pimientos de Padron. The festival takes place each August. Thousands of visitors attend every year. There is food, music, and dancing. Large amounts of Pimiento de Padron are cooked and shared. Local wine is also served.

Today, Pimientos de Padron is eaten all over Spain. It is also popular in other countries. Still, Padron remains its true home. This humble dish shows how simple food can be special. It is a must try on your next trip to Spain.