Friggitello

Friggitello is a traditional Capsicum annuum pepper originating from Italy and long associated with Mediterranean agriculture and cuisine. It has been cultivated and selected over generations, with regional variation reflecting local growing practices.

Plants are productive and yield elongated, conical pods typically measuring 5 to 10 centimetres in length. Fruits have a slightly wrinkled surface and mature from green to red. Walls are thin to medium, making them suitable for quick cooking.

The flavour is sweet and mild, with very low heat, commonly around 100 Scoville Heat Units. The name comes from the Italian word “friggere”, meaning to fry, reflecting its common preparation method. Friggitello is traditionally fried, roasted, pickled, or eaten fresh and is sometimes referred to as pepperoncini, though that name can apply to similar peppers from other lineages.