Air Fryer Soy Ginger Shishito Peppers Recipe

Shishito peppers: These small, mild peppers are typically green and have a slightly sweet flavor with occasional spicy ones mixed in.

Soy sauce: A salty, umami-rich sauce made from fermented soybeans, essential for adding depth to the dish.

Ginger: Freshly grated ginger root adds a spicy, aromatic flavor that complements the soy sauce.

Olive oil: Used to coat the peppers before air frying, helping them blister and cook evenly.

Sesame seeds: These small seeds add a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch as a garnish.

When preparing shishito peppers for this recipe, ensure they are thoroughly washed and dried. Excess moisture can hinder the air frying process, preventing the peppers from achieving a perfectly blistered exterior. Additionally, when grating ginger, use a microplane for a finer texture, which will blend seamlessly into the soy sauce mixture, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

• shishito peppers - Substitute with padron peppers: They have a similar mild heat and flavor profile, making them an excellent alternative.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that offers a similar umami flavor.

• ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: If fresh ginger is unavailable, ground ginger can provide a similar spicy warmth, though use less as it is more concentrated.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good substitute for olive oil in air frying.

• sesame seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds can add a similar crunch and nutritional benefits, though they have a slightly different flavor.

• Allow the shishito peppers to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Transfer the cooled peppers to an airtight container. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal for maintaining freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The peppers will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you wish to freeze the peppers, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the peppers to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen peppers in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the peppers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Avoid microwaving the peppers as it can make them rubbery and less flavorful.
• For best results, consume the frozen peppers within 2 months to enjoy optimal taste and texture.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover shishito peppers in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes until they are warmed through and slightly crispy again.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the peppers in a skillet. Heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the peppers for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are heated through.
• For a quick microwave option, place the peppers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.
• If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the peppers on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are warmed through.

• Air fryer: This is the main appliance used to cook the shishito peppers, ensuring they become crispy and perfectly roasted.

• Mixing bowl: Used to toss the shishito peppers with olive oil and later to mix the soy sauce and grated ginger.

• Tongs: Handy for shaking the peppers halfway through cooking and for tossing them in the soy ginger mixture.

• Grater: Essential for grating the fresh ginger.

• Small bowl: Used to mix the soy sauce and grated ginger together.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the soy sauce, ginger, olive oil, and sesame seeds.

• Serving plate: For presenting the finished dish, garnished with sesame seeds.

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer while you prepare the shishito peppers to save time.

Use pre-grated ginger: Opt for pre-grated ginger to cut down on prep time.

Mix sauce in advance: Prepare the soy sauce and ginger mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Batch cooking: If you have a large air fryer, cook multiple batches of peppers simultaneously.

Quick cleanup: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup.