Piment d’Espelette, a prized variety from France’s Basque region, is renowned for its gentle heat and complex, fruity flavour. Named after the village of Espelette, where it plays a central role in local culture and cuisine, this chilli is celebrated annually during a vibrant festival in its honour. The slender pods transition from green to a rich, deep red as they mature, bringing a touch of colour and refined spice to countless traditional dishes.