If you love simple appetizers that deliver big flavor, this blistered shishito peppers recipe is the perfect go-to. Ready in just minutes, blistered shishito peppers are smoky, slightly sweet, and irresistibly addictive. With their thin skin and mild heat (only about 1 in 10 are spicy!), shishitos blister beautifully in a hot pan, making them an ideal fast snack, appetizer, or side dish.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make blistered shishito peppers, plus the best seasonings, dips, cooking methods, nutrition insights, and chef-level tips for maximizing flavor.

What Are Shishito Peppers?

Shishito peppers are small, wrinkled, East-Asian peppers known for their mild flavor and addictive texture when cooked. They are:

• Thin-skinned
• Low-heat (90% mild, 10% may surprise you!)
• Perfect for quick blistering

They’re frequently served at Japanese izakayas and trendy restaurants worldwide thanks to their simplicity and flavor punch.

Why This Blistered Shishito Peppers Recipe Works

This recipe succeeds because:

• High heat = perfect char
• Minimal ingredients = maximum flavor
• Natural sweetness intensifies when blistered
• Endlessly customizable with spices and dips

Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or enjoying a quick snack, blistered shishito peppers always impress.

Ingredients for Blistered Shishito Peppers

Optional Add-ins:

• Sesame seeds
• Soy sauce
• Garlic
• Smoked paprika
• Chili crisp

How to Make Blistered Shishito Peppers (Step-by-Step)

Below is the quickest and easiest method using a stovetop pan.

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Rinse the shishito peppers and pat them completely dry. Moisture prevents blistering, so dryness is essential.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Use a cast-iron skillet or stainless-steel pan. Heat it over medium-high to high heat until very hot.

High heat is the key to perfect blistering.

Step 3: Add Peppers & Oil

Add 1–2 tablespoons of oil and immediately toss in the peppers.

• Spread into a single layer
• Let them sit to char — avoid constant stirring

Step 4: Cook for 8–10 Minutes

Turn peppers every 2–3 minutes. You want:

• Large char spots
• Shriveled skin
• Tender inside

Step 5: Season

Remove from heat and sprinkle with:

• Flaky sea salt
• Fresh lemon juice
• Optional sesame seeds

Serve immediately while hot and blistered.

Alternative Cooking Methods

1. Air Fryer Blistered Shishito Peppers

• Toss peppers with oil
• Cook at 400°F for 6–8 minutes
• Shake basket halfway through

2. Grilled Shishito Peppers

• Thread peppers on skewers
• Grill 2–3 minutes per side

3. Oven-Roasted Shishito Peppers

• Spread peppers on a sheet pan
• Roast at 450°F for 8–10 minutes
• Broil 1 minute for extra char

Best Seasonings & Flavor Variations

1. Lemon & Sea Salt (Classic)

Bright, simple, and restaurant-quality.

2. Garlic Soy Glaze

Toss cooked peppers with:

• 1 tsp soy sauce
• ½ tsp sesame oil
• Pinch of sugar

3. Miso Butter

Melt together:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp white miso

Drizzle over peppers.

4. Chili Crisp Explosion

Perfect for spice lovers.

5. Mediterranean Herb Mix

Add thyme, oregano, or rosemary.

Dipping Sauces for Blistered Shishito Peppers

Pair blistered shishito peppers with:

• Lemon aioli
• Garlic yogurt dip
• Spicy mayo
• Ponzu sauce
• Tahini sauce
• Soy-sesame dipping sauce

These elevate your dish from snack to restaurant-worthy appetizer.

How Spicy Are Blistered Shishito Peppers?

Shishito peppers are generally mild. Only about 1 in 10 has any real heat.

According to Scoville scale measurements, they usually rank:

• 50–200 SHU (Scoville Heat Units)

This makes them ideal for groups — you get flavor without overwhelming spice.

Nutrition Information (Per 1 Cup Cooked)

Shishitos are low-calorie, healthy, and antioxidant-rich.

Storage & Reheating

Storage:
Refrigerate leftover blistered shishito peppers in an airtight container for 2–3 days.

Reheating:

• Cast-iron pan over medium heat (best)
• Air fryer 2–3 minutes
• Avoid microwaving — it softens them

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do you eat the whole shishito pepper?

Yes! Eat everything except the stem.

2. Why aren’t my peppers blistering?

Because the pan isn’t hot enough or peppers weren’t dry.

3. Can I make blistered shishito peppers without oil?

Yes — use a dry cast-iron skillet, but the flavor won’t be as rich.

4. Are blistered shishito peppers keto?

Yes, they are low-carb and keto-friendly.

5. Where can I buy shishito peppers?

Most grocery stores carry them seasonally. You can also find them at Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and farmers’ markets.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Blistered Shishito Peppers

This blistered shishito peppers recipe is one of the easiest and most addictive dishes you can make at home. With just a hot pan, simple seasonings, and a few minutes of cooking time, you get smoky, charred, restaurant-quality peppers that pair with almost anything.

Whether you’re preparing a quick snack, party appetizer, or healthy side dish, blistered shishito peppers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser — and once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again.