Hot Pepper Spread Produced by: Masseria Mirogallo in Basilicata, Italy

##0##

This crema di peperoncino immediately delights with its gorgeous bright orange-red color and incredible aroma of sweet paprika and ripe tomato. Primarily made with a local variety of sweet pepper, Peperoni di Senise (the same peppers that are used to make Cruschi and Pepper Composta), this Hot Pepper Spread’s flavor is bell pepper-forward, with a southern Italian spicy finish thanks to the small addition of super-hot Diavolicchi Peppers.

Throughout late summer and fall, the sweet and hot peppers are harvested a few days after they are perfectly ripe to ensure their flavor and complexity. Once seeded, they are lightly blanched in acidulated water for a few minutes to soften them. The peppers are then put through a food processor with the Belfiore family's own extra virgin olive oil to create this thick, yet delicate smooth paste.

This Hot Pepper Spread helps highlight the flavor of many dishes.