The only chilli pepper produced in France, the Espelette chilli pepper has made the reputation of the village that bears its name. Highly appreciated for its flavour, this aromatic condiment, synonymous with sunshine, is an essential ingredient in the preparation of all traditional Basque dishes and is an integral part of regional folklore.
Originally from South America, Espelette chilli pepper was introduced to the Basque Country by explorers from the New World in the 16th century. Well adapted to the climate, the cultivation of this surprising plant spread to a few farms in the region.
Mainly used as a seasoning, women also use chilli pepper as a colouring, making a chilli powder to extract its red colour. In the 17th century, it began to be added to hot chocolate to enhance the taste of this drink which the town of Bayonne was particularly fond of. Already 7,000 years earlier, the Aztecs mixed chilli pepper with cocoa to produce a drink intended to give courage to warriors! Despite all this, production remains timid.
At the beginning of the 19th century, only a few producers supplied chilli powder to butchers who got into the habit of rubbing their ham and their meats with them to preserve it better and give it more flavour. As time went by, a few farmers in the small village of Espelette began to develop a real know-how and, little by little, the village became known as this pepper specialist; the condiment even ended up taking its name.
Today, there are many derivatives of this product such as chilli chocolate or chilli jelly. Since 2000, it benefits from an advantageous AOC classification, its production area extending over nearly 10 communes. However, if the Espelette chilli pepper has become so emblematic it is also, and perhaps above all, thanks to all the traditions that surround it!
From September onwards, incredible garlands of red chilli pepper invade the facades and balconies of most Espelette houses and restaurants, attracting many tourists. Every year the "Chilli Festival" is organised in October. These festivities honour the cultivation of chilli peppers, local traditions and gastronomy. They bring together nearly 20,000 people who come to enjoy a particularly joyful festive moment organised by the Confrérie du Piment (chilli brotherhood). An event taking, each year, more and more importance!
So that Espelette chilli pepper no longer holds any secrets for you, it's here.
Bérengère for Comme des Français
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