Dried chili pepper

Recipe from Yaroslav Inshakov, chef of the Septa restaurant.

Lentil and bacon soup is a hearty and aromatic dish of European cuisine that warms the soul and brings comfort. The lentils used in this recipe are known for their rich flavor and nutritional properties, while the bacon adds richness and a pleasant smoky note. Traditionally, such soups were made by peasants using accessible and simple ingredients, making it a beloved dish in various countries. The taste of this soup is a harmony of the softness of lentils, sweet carrots, and fragrant herbs, complemented by crispy pieces of bacon. It is perfect for cold days and pairs wonderfully with fresh bread, creating a wholesome and nutritious lunch. The simplicity of preparation and rich flavor make it an excellent choice for family dinners or cozy evenings.

Asparagus linguine is a refined Italian dish that captivates with its simplicity and elegance. Inspired by Mediterranean traditions, this recipe harmoniously combines tender linguine pasta with crispy green asparagus, aromatic garlic, and a spicy hint of dried chili pepper. Lemon zest adds freshness, while butter and olive oil create a velvety sauce that smoothly coats the pasta. The finishing touch is parmesan and pecorino, giving the dish a rich and deep flavor. It’s a wonderful option for a light yet hearty dinner that highlights the sophistication of Italian cuisine and delights with its balance of flavors.

Cavatelli with sausages is a classic dish of Italian cuisine that embodies the traditions of southern regions. These small handmade pasta shells made from durum wheat have a delicate texture and perfectly hold the rich meat sauce. Inspired by rustic recipes, this version includes aromatic Italian sausages, sweet onions, garlic, white wine, and peeled tomatoes, creating depth of flavor. A light spiciness from dried chili and fresh thyme adds sophistication, while Parmesan completes the composition with its rich umami. This dish is an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner served with a glass of dry wine. Its richness and balance of flavors make each forkful a true culinary delight where the simplicity of pasta meets the richness of traditional cuisine.

Pangratto is breadcrumbs fried in garlic butter. In Italy, pangrattato was once used as a substitute for Parmesan, which some people couldn't afford. It gives the dish a great texture and crispiness, and when cooked correctly, great flavor.

Orecchiette with broccoli and anchovies is a refined dish of Italian cuisine that reflects a balance of simplicity and rich flavor. The tender pasta ears absorb the aroma of the sauce and combine with broccoli, adding freshness and lightness. Anchovies dissolve in creamy butter with garlic and chili pepper, giving the dish spiciness and depth. This dish originated in Apulia, a region famous for its pasta, and has become a symbol of cozy home dining. Orecchiette is perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. It can be served with a glass of white wine to highlight the complexity of flavors. It cooks quickly but leaves an unforgettable gastronomic impression.

Rotolo is an unusual pasta dish. It takes a little longer to make than some other pastas, but it's worth it because it's a joy to eat - a real showpiece if you want to get attention .

Celery root puree with shrimp in Thai style is a refined combination of tender root vegetable and spicy seafood, inspired by Thai cuisine. The celery root, with a light nutty note, transforms into a silky puree thanks to coconut milk and aromatic green curry paste. Shrimp, marinated in ginger and spices, gain zest and depth of flavor after quick frying. The finishing touch is a refreshing lime sauce that adds lightness and balance to the dish. This dish is perfect for gourmets who appreciate subtle flavor nuances and exotic accents.

Although the name "hummus" literally translates as "chickpeas", in fact, the source material for this Middle Eastern snack can be not only Turkish peas. James Redoubt, chef of the restaurant "Sea-Coffee-Ocean by Erwin", uses pumpkin pulp as a base, adding tenderness, juiciness and a cheerful red color to the pea viscosity. But decorating hummus with mushrooms is quite within the framework of the Eastern tradition, but here soy sauce, cilantro and sesame oil are also used, which gives the snack an additional Asian accent. You don't have to be too clever with mushrooms - use all-season oyster mushrooms. It is better to remove their tough stems, but the caps of oyster mushrooms, especially small ones, are always full of real mushroom aroma. By the way, it is better not to cut oyster mushrooms with a knife, but to tear them into parts by hand along their own grain - there will be fewer crumbs wasted in vain.

Cheese-tomato chips with onion are a refined Italian snack masterpiece that combines crispy parmesan and aromatic tomato-onion filling. The idea of this dish originated from Italy's gastronomic traditions, where cheese and tomatoes are essential elements of the cuisine. The chips have a rich savory flavor thanks to a mix of Italian herbs, pepper, and sumac. A spicy note of dried chili adds a slight heat to them. They are perfect for an aperitif, accompanying a glass of wine or enhancing the taste of fresh salad. They can be prepared in just a few minutes in the oven, making them an ideal quick treat for guests or a light snack. They can be eaten alone or complemented with sauces, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.

Brussels sprouts with cream and cheese is a refined combination of tenderness and rich flavor. Historically, Brussels sprouts were popular in Europe, especially in Belgium, where they have been cultivated since the 17th century. This recipe turns them into a true gastronomic delight: caramelized in butter, they acquire a light crunch and nutty notes. Garlic adds spiciness while cream provides softness and velvetiness. The finishing touch is Parmesan, which gives the dish a rich flavor with a pleasant saltiness. The addition of chili pepper makes it slightly spicy, perfectly balancing the creamy texture. The dish is great as a standalone side or as an accompaniment to meat and fish main courses, creating a cozy and harmonious tasty accent.

Spicy sauerkraut salad with garlic is a bold combination of piquant aromas and spicy notes that awakens the appetite. Its roots trace back to traditional Eastern European appetizers, but the author's interpretation makes it special. Sauerkraut gives the dish a pleasant sourness, while garlic adds rich spiciness. A mix of turmeric, black and hot pepper fills the salad with warmth from Eastern spices, and the combination of olive and sunflower oils creates a rich and silky texture. This salad is perfect as a standalone dish or as an accompaniment to meat and fish appetizers. It wonderfully enhances flavor and stimulates digestion, turning every meal into a vibrant gastronomic adventure.

Fillet of pollock in unagi sauce is an exquisite Japanese dish that combines the tenderness of white fish with the rich, sweet-soy flavor of unagi. The sauce, traditionally used for smoked eel, gives the pollock a caramel depth and a hint of spice, harmoniously complemented by sesame and dried chili pepper. Marinating enhances the flavor while baking preserves the fish's juiciness. The onion bed adds a soft sweetness, making the dish's texture even richer. Historically, dishes with unagi sauce are popular in Japanese cuisine due to its rich umami and ability to enhance seafood flavors. Serving pollock fillet in this exquisite sauce offers an elegant treat that pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables.

Iceberg salad with avocado is a harmonious blend of freshness and spicy notes born from the depths of Italian cuisine. The light yet rich flavor of avocado meets the crispy leaves of iceberg, creating a perfect balance of textures. Lemon juice adds a refreshing tang, while olive oil contributes richness. Chili pepper gives this salad a slight spiciness, and apple cider vinegar enriches it with a subtle sweet-sour note. This salad is perfect as a standalone dish for a light snack or as a side to main courses. Its simplicity in preparation makes it an excellent option for a quick yet exquisite treat. It pairs wonderfully with fish and white wine, giving the meal a Mediterranean character.

Spicy cheese chips are a wonderful combination of tenderness and crunchiness, perfect for lovers of bold flavors. This dish draws inspiration from classic cheese snacks but reaches a new level of flavor depth with the blend of mozzarella and parmesan, along with a spicy mix of seasonings. The chips have a rich cheesy aroma and a slight spiciness, making them an ideal complement to an aperitif or as a standalone snack. They are easy to prepare, and their stretchy texture transforms into crispy discs with a golden crust during cooking. This signature recipe is a great find for gourmets who appreciate the harmony of taste and texture and the opportunity to experiment with different spices. Try it and enjoy the perfect balance of cheesy tenderness and spicy zest!