Delicious Recipes with Peperone Crusco:
Tenuta Padì's Tips
An Explosion of Flavors from the Lucanian Tradition
Peperone crusco is one of the most distinctive and fascinating ingredients in Lucanian cuisine. Sun-dried, this pepper has a unique flavor and a crispy texture, capable of adding a distinctive touch to a wide range of dishes. Originating from Basilicata, peperone crusco has become a symbol of local gastronomy, used in various recipes that highlight the simplicity and authentic flavors of this land. Companies such as Tenuta Padì are dedicated to producing this precious ingredient, ensuring quality and authenticity.
The History of Peperone Crusco
Peperone crusco, also known as peperone di Senise, takes its name from the city of Senise, located in the province of Potenza in Basilicata. This pepper is grown in the region's fertile lands and then left to dry in the sun, a process that gives it its characteristic crispy texture and intense flavor. The tradition of producing peperone crusco dates back centuries and represents a true culinary heritage of Basilicata, passed down from generation to generation. Tenuta Padì, a young agricultural company, is committed to keeping these traditions alive, producing high-quality PGI-certified peperoni cruschi.
Traditional Recipes with Peperone Crusco

Cod with Peperone Crusco
Ingredients:
500g of desalted cod
5 Tenuta Padì Peperoni Cruschi
2 cloves of garlic
Extra virgin olive oil
Fresh chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation: In a large pan, heat some extra virgin olive oil and add the crushed garlic cloves. When the garlic begins to brown, add the Tenuta Padì peperoni cruschi and fry until crispy. Remove them and set aside. In the same pan, add the cod cut into pieces and cook for about 10-15 minutes until tender. Add the fried peperoni cruschi and mix gently. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

Pasta with Peperone Crusco and Breadcrumbs
Ingredients:
400g spaghetti
6 Tenuta Padì peperoni cruschi to crumble: Glass-packaged chips already prepared
100g breadcrumbs
2 cloves of garlic
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation: Cook the spaghetti in plenty of salted water until al dente. Meanwhile, in a pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil and add the crushed garlic cloves. Fry the Tenuta Padì peperoni cruschi until crispy, then remove and coarsely crumble them. In the same pan, add the breadcrumbs and toast until golden and crispy. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the toasted breadcrumbs. Mix well. Add the crumbled peperoni cruschi and mix again. Serve immediately, drizzling with a little extra virgin olive oil.

Orecchiette with Turnips and Peperone Crusco
Ingredients:
400g orecchiette
1 large turnip
6 Tenuta Padì Peperoni Cruschi
2 cloves of garlic
Extra virgin olive oil
Fresh chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation: Peel the turnip and cut it into small cubes. In a large pot, heat some extra virgin olive oil and add the whole garlic cloves. When the garlic begins to brown, remove it and add the turnip cubes. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the turnips are tender. Meanwhile, cook the orecchiette in plenty of salted water according to the package instructions. Fry the Tenuta Padì peperoni cruschi until crispy, then coarsely crumble them. Add the peperoni cruschi and chopped parsley to the turnips. Mix well. Drain the orecchiette al dente and add them to the pot with the turnips and peperoni cruschi. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the orecchiette with turnips and peperone crusco hot, garnished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Innovative Recipes with Peperone Crusco

Peperone Crusco Covered in Dark Chocolate
Ingredients:
10 Tenuta Padì Peperoni Cruschi
200g high-quality dark chocolate
Flaky sea salt (optional)
Preparation: Fry the Tenuta Padì peperoni cruschi until crispy, then set them aside on absorbent paper to remove excess oil. Melt the dark chocolate in a bain-marie until smooth and homogeneous. Dip the peperoni cruschi in the melted chocolate, ensuring they are evenly coated. Arrange the chocolate-covered peperoni cruschi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, add a pinch of flaky sea salt over the still-warm chocolate for a contrast of flavors. Let cool at room temperature until the chocolate solidifies. Serve as a dessert or a delightful snack.
The Red Gold of Lucania
Peperone crusco is a true gem of Lucanian cuisine, capable of transforming every dish into a unique tasting experience. From traditional recipes like cod with peperone crusco and pasta with breadcrumbs and peperone crusco, to more innovative preparations like peperoni cruschi covered in dark chocolate, this ingredient stands out for its versatility and its unmistakable flavor. Tenuta Padì, with its commitment to producing PGI Peperone Crusco di Senise, continues to enhance this extraordinary product, preserving its quality and authenticity according to the ancient Lucanian tradition.
Choosing Tenuta Padì products means bringing the genuineness and tradition of Basilicata to your table. Every stage of the production process, from cultivation to harvest, from drying to packaging, is followed with care and dedication. This commitment ensures that every Peperone Crusco retains its organoleptic characteristics and its unmistakable flavor.
With Tenuta Padì, you are not just buying a product, but you are choosing the quality and authenticity of a centuries-old tradition. The passion for the land and respect for ancient processing techniques are reflected in every single pepper, ensuring a unique and unforgettable culinary experience.
Bring the authentic flavor of Basilicata home and let yourself be won over by the superior quality of PGI Peperoni Cruschi di Senise. Choose Tenuta Padì: we cultivate with love!