Last weekend I visited the City Market in Kansas City, MO with some friends. At tthe produce stands I was on a quest for poblanos, but was informed it was still too early. But, there were a number of of stands featuring Asian produce, and I decided to change my quest to finding some Thai birds-eye chilis.
As you can see, I found them, plus some. Before I found the long, skinny birds-eyes, a vendor convinced me to buy some of his peppers. He either told me they were hotter or not as hot as birds-eyes. I don't remember. I guess I'll find out when I bite into one! First, they got a good rinse.
Then after they drained awhile, I spread them out on a cookie sheet to dry.
The vendor who sold me the shorter peppers (most about an inch) told me that he crushed them and used in stir fries and other dishes. He also told me they froze really well. So once everything was dry (so they wouldn't stick together) I found a container and tossed them in the freezer.
The birds-eyes I wanted to dry. I use in stir fries, but also in pickles, and a few recipes where I slice the dried peppers. So I started stringing them tonight. Finishing them is going to have to wait another day and then I will find someplace to hang them until they are drive. Steve will love having peppers hanging around.
I got all the chilies strung, and they are now drying in a garland over the fireplace. Pretty sure Steve loves the new decor.
Updates to add a photo of all the dried peppers.
Labels: Preserving
