Even a cursory glance through the recipes in this book will make it obvious how often we reach for the dried pepper shaker at my house, even when making dishes that aren’t intended to come across as “spicy.” In particular, I use mild Aleppo pepper as a finishing touch on cooked vegetables, dips and spreads, and salad dressings to add a dash of color, a textural note, and a gentle flavor enhancement.
As the name indicates, Aleppo peppers are native to Syria, and they are still widely grown and consumed throughout the region. These days we source ours from Turkey, where we are able to ensure a more consistent supply.