Crushed red pepper aka Pizza pepper flakes. We know them. We love them! They’re a staple in most spice racks, and now it’s time to add to your crushed pepper lineup with some global flavors. From Korean Gochugaru to Turkish Marash and Urfa Biber, expoloring these new varieties will bring smoky, sweet spice to your cooking. From a pop for pizza to a sublime flavor for salad dressings, get to know these four chile flakes!
Urfa Biber
Urfa Biber chile flakes are a unique, deeply flavorful spice from Turkey. Grown in the Urfa region, the chile looks like a big poblano. The sundrying method gives the chile a smoky flavor while not being a smoked pepper. Urfa Biber has a rich, smoky flavor with hints of raisin and chocolate. Mild to medium in heat, they add depth to stews, roasted meats, and vegetables. Their complex taste makes them a versatile addition to many dishes. Use Urfa Biber anywhere you’d use a chile flake. Chefs are turning to Urfa Biber for chocolate desserts. Fold a teaspoon into brownie batter or sprinkle a few on truffles or chocolate chip cookie dough.
Try Urfa Biber Chile Flakes in this recipe: Deviled Eggs with Zhug & Pickled Radishes
Gochugaru
Gochugaru chile flakes are a staple in Korean cuisine, known for their vibrant red color and moderate heat. Gochugaru is the traditional ingredient in Kimchi. They offer a subtly sweet and smoky flavor. Use them as you would crushed red pepper – on pizza, in soups and stews or in vinaigrettes. Gochugaru are versatile and flavorful.
Try Gochugaru Chile Flakes in this recipe: Cheese Straws with Gochugaru
Aleppo
Aleppo chile flakes origins are in Syria, and today Aleppo-style chile flakes are grown in Turkey. Aleppo Chile Flakes are dried from Halaby peppers. They are prized for their moderate heat and fruity, slightly tangy flavor. With a hint of cumin and a mild saltiness, they add complexity to meats, stews and sauces. Versatile and aromatic, use Aleppo Chile flakes on pasta, avocado toast or to make a quick chile oil.
Try Aleppo Chile Flakes in this recipe: Marinated Feta with Sundried Tomatoes & Aleppo
Marash
Another beautiful chile flake from Turkey: Marash. These chile flakes are known for their rich, complex flavor with moderate heat and a touch of sweetness. These deep red flakes have a slightly smoky, earthy profile and are reminiscent of sundried tomatoes. They are perfect for enhancing meats, stews, and roasted vegetables. They add vibrant color and a flavorful kick to any dish. Try them in tomato sauce. And they make a perfect pizza flake!
Try Marash Chile Flakes in this recipe: Easy Homemade Tomato Sauce
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