PEPPADEW PREACH:

Peppadews and combinations open new paths for spicy snacks (J.M. HIRSCH, January 4, 2006, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Last night I went on a bit of a bender.

Sometimes I can't help myself; I blame my family. We've always been a bit excessive when it comes to food. When we find something we like -- a particular ice cream, dolmades, sushi, whatever -- we tend to go a bit nuts.

That's how I've been lately with Peppadews, funky little peppers that taste and look like a cross between jalapeños, red bell peppers and a cherry tomato. They are small, bright red and taste tangy and crisp, sharp and sweet. They are wonderful.

Last night I ate half a pound of them.

Peppadews -- a trademarked name -- come ready for stuffing, cored, seeded and marinated in a sweet vinegar brine.