Shishito peppers are a mild, sweet, and slightly smoky Japanese pepper with an addictive flavor. About one in ten has a surprising kick of heat, making them fun to eat! They’re best enjoyed blistered in a hot pan with a little salt, but they’re also great in stir-fries, salads, and tempura. If you’ve picked up shishito seedlings from Mollypop Farms, here’s how to care for them and enjoy their delicious flavor!
Caring for Shishito Pepper Plants 🌱
🌞 Sunlight: Shishitos love full sun and need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best production.
🌱 Soil: Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Adding compost will help boost growth.
💧 Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, watering when the top inch feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
🌡️ Temperature: Shishitos thrive in warm temperatures (70°F-85°F) and don’t tolerate frost.
✂️ Pruning & Support: These plants can reach 2-3 feet tall. While staking isn’t always necessary, it can help support heavy fruit production.
Harvesting Shishito Peppers 🌶️
Shishito peppers are typically ready to harvest 60-75 days after transplanting when they are 3-4 inches long and bright green. They can also be left to ripen to red for a sweeter flavor.
For the best taste, pick them young and tender, before they fully mature.
Tasty Ways to Use Shishitos 🍽️
Shishito peppers have a mild, slightly smoky flavor and a soft, thin skin that makes them perfect for quick cooking. Try them in:
🔥 Blistered Shishitos – Sauté in a hot pan with olive oil and sea salt for a simple, addictive snack.
🍣 Tempura Shishitos – Dip in a light batter and fry for a crispy treat.
🥗 Shishito Pepper Salad – Toss with sesame oil, soy sauce, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
🍳 Shishitos & Eggs – Sauté with eggs for a delicious breakfast scramble.
🌯 Shishito Stir-Fry – Add to a stir-fry with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.
🧀 Shishito Queso – Chop and stir into melted cheese for a unique twist on queso dip.
Grow Shishitos for a Delicious Harvest! 🌿🌶️
Shishito peppers are easy to grow, highly productive, and full of flavor. Whether you’re enjoying them blistered in a skillet or adding them to your favorite dishes, these peppers are a fun and rewarding crop. Pick up your shishito seedlings from Mollypop Farms and start growing today!
