Variety
Corno di Toro
The 'horn of the bull' — a dramatic Italian heirloom that's outstanding on the grill
Corno di Toro ('horn of the bull') is a traditional Italian heirloom variety producing long, curved, horn-shaped fruit in both red and yellow forms. An important heritage variety in southern Italian cuisine, used for frying, grilling, and preserving in oil. The dramatic curved shape and exceptional flavour make it one of the most rewarding sweet peppers to grow under glass in the UK.
Flavour
Rich, sweet, and intensely flavoured with a slightly thicker skin than other Italian varieties that provides good texture when grilled. The yellow form has a slightly milder, more delicate flavour; the red form is more assertive and complex. Both are outstanding cooked.
In the kitchen
Traditional use is frying whole in olive oil or grilling over open fire until blistered. Excellent in a peperonata (slow-cooked pepper and tomato stew) that becomes an extraordinary side dish for grilled meat. The curved shape makes each pepper look spectacular on a platter of mixed roasted vegetables.
Growing
Heritage variety (open-pollinated). Available in red and yellow forms — grow both for visual variety on the plate. Needs a warm greenhouse in the UK. Vigorous plants produce good yields. Seed is widely available from specialist Italian heritage seed suppliers. Save seed for future seasons.