A new market find from Borba Family Farms!
Move over, black pepper—there’s a new spice in town! The Basque Chili Powder from Borba Family Farms adds a burst of color and gentle heat that transforms everyday cooking into something special. Hand-grown and carefully dried right here on the Central Coast, this small-batch seasoning is inspired by one of Europe’s most beloved culinary treasures: Piment d’Espelette, the famed chili pepper of France’s Basque region.
A Taste of the Basque Tradition
In the foothills of the Pyrenees, the bright red Espelette pepper—known locally as Ezpeletako biperra—is a cornerstone of Basque cooking. The peppers are harvested by hand in late summer, strung into long garlands, and sun-dried against whitewashed village walls before being gently roasted and ground into a fine, copper-colored powder.
With its subtle heat, smoky aroma, and sweet, fruity notes, Piment d’Espelette has earned a protected designation of origin (AOP) guaranteeing its authenticity and traditional processing methods.
Borba Family Farms brings that same flavor spirit home, cultivating Espelette-type peppers under the Central Coast sun to create a local version that captures the essence of the Basque countryside—vibrant, aromatic, and full of character.
Flavor and Heat
Basque Chili Powder lands somewhere between paprika and cayenne in heat—mild but lively, with a touch of sweetness and a whisper of smoke. It adds depth and warmth without overwhelming a dish, making it a perfect everyday seasoning. Sprinkle it anywhere you’d reach for black pepper or paprika: over eggs, roasted vegetables, grilled fish, or even popcorn.
Ways to Use It
Here are a few delicious ways to showcase Basque Chili Powder at home. A suggestion by the Borba family was, “We love it sprinkled on our roasted honey nut delicata squash for a sweet and spicy flavor combo!”
- Basque Chili Scrambled Eggs
Whisk a pinch into morning eggs for gentle heat and gorgeous color. Top with chives or fresh herbs. - Basque Aioli
Blend mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of Basque Chili Powder for a dip that pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, shrimp, or artichokes. - Chili Butter for Steak or Fish
Mix softened butter with Basque Chili Powder, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Melt over grilled steak, chicken, or halibut for a restaurant-worthy finish. - Roasted Market Vegetables
Toss carrots, potatoes, or zucchini with olive oil, salt, and a teaspoon of Basque Chili Powder before roasting for a rich, smoky flavor. - Seafood Chowder or Stew
Add a spoonful for a Basque-inspired twist that brings warmth and color to hearty seafood dishes.
Stop by Borba Family Farms’ booth at the Aptos Farmers Market (Cabrillo College) or Monterey Farmers Markets (Del Monte Shopping Center) to pick up a jar of this aromatic specialty spice. Whether you use it as a finishing touch on eggs, in a marinade for grilled meats, or to give soups a subtle kick, Basque Chili Powder is a simple way to bring a little Basque sunshine into your kitchen.
RECIPE SPOTLIGHT
- Basque Chili Aioli
- Basque Chili and Lemon Butter Halibut
- Basque Potatoes with Chili Aioli
- Find more basque recipes here!
