Peperoncino

Peperoncino is the Italian name for small dried hot chili peppers that are a staple of Mediterranean and especially Italian cuisine. Their heat ranges from mild to strong depending on the variety. They are most often used whole or crushed to flavor olive oil, pasta, pizza, sauces, and antipasti. Classic dishes include spaghetti aglio, olio e peperoncino and arrabbiata sauce. They are sold dried, whole, crushed, or preserved in oil. They contain capsaicin, which not only provides heat but also has proven anti-inflammatory properties. In other cuisines, they can easily be substituted with crushed chili flakes.