How To Grill Peppers In Oven

Grilling Peppers in the Oven: A Delicious and Easy Method

Grilling peppers in the oven is a fantastic way to bring out their natural sweetness and create a delicious side dish or addition to your favorite recipes. Whether you’re grilling bell peppers, poblano peppers, or any other variety, the oven can be an excellent alternative to traditional outdoor grilling. Here’s a simple guide to help you grill peppers to perfection in the comfort of your kitchen.

Choosing the Right Peppers

When it comes to grilling peppers in the oven, it’s essential to start with the right ingredients. Look for peppers that are firm, vibrant in color, and free from any blemishes. Bell peppers are a popular choice for oven grilling due to their sweet flavor and versatility, but you can also experiment with other varieties like poblano, shishito, or jalapeño peppers for a unique twist.

Preparing the Peppers

Before you start grilling, it’s important to prepare the peppers properly. Follow these simple steps to get your peppers ready for the oven:

1. Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 450°F, to ensure a good char on the peppers.
2. Wash the peppers thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residue.
3. Pat the peppers dry with a paper towel and then carefully cut them in half, removing the stems, seeds, and membranes.
4. For a delicious smoky flavor, consider brushing the peppers with a small amount of olive oil before placing them on a baking sheet.

Grilling Process

Now that your peppers are prepped and ready, it’s time to start grilling in the oven. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result:

1. Place the prepared peppers on a baking sheet, skin side up, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking.
2. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the peppers grill for 15-20 minutes, or until the skins are charred and blistered.
3. Keep a close eye on the peppers to prevent them from burning, and rotate the baking sheet if necessary to ensure even grilling.
4. Once the peppers are nicely charred, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the peppers steam for 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to remove the skins later.

Peeling and Serving

After the steaming process, the skins of the peppers should easily peel off, leaving you with tender, smoky, and flavorful grilled peppers. Here’s how to finish the process and serve them:

1. Peel the skins off the peppers and discard them, leaving the flesh intact.
2. Slice the grilled peppers into strips or dice them, depending on your preference and intended use.
3. Season the grilled peppers with a sprinkle of salt, a drizzle of olive oil, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
4. Use the grilled peppers as a side dish, a topping for salads, sandwiches, or pizzas, or as a flavorful addition to pasta dishes and grilled meats.

Conclusion

Grilling peppers in the oven is a simple and rewarding cooking method that can elevate the flavor of your dishes. Whether you’re a fan of sweet bell peppers or enjoy the smoky heat of poblano peppers, the oven grilling technique is versatile and easy to master. With these easy steps, you can enjoy delicious grilled peppers in no time, adding a pop of color and flavor to your meals.

So, next time you’re craving the delicious taste of grilled peppers, fire up your oven and give this method a try. You won’t be disappointed!