This explicit culinary addition to pizza includes incorporating small, usually spicy, pepperoncini or banana peppers, typically sliced, to impart a pointy, tangy taste profile. For example, a plain cheese pizza might be considerably enhanced by the even handed utility of those peppers, making a extra advanced style sensation.
The inclusion of this ingredient contributes considerably to the general sensory expertise of consuming pizza. Its advantages prolong past mere taste enhancement; it may introduce textural distinction, including a slight crunch. Traditionally, incorporating numerous pepper varieties has been a method of regionalizing pizza types, demonstrating a culinary adaptability to native tastes and elements. The elements influence lies in its functionality to rework a normal pizza right into a extra thrilling and personalised dish.
Subsequent sections will discover the particular forms of peppers utilized, preparation strategies to maximise taste, and beneficial pairings with different pizza toppings to realize optimum outcomes. Moreover, the regional variations and client preferences surrounding this topping will probably be examined, together with issues for its influence on the perceived warmth degree of the pizza.
1. Pepper Selection
The choice of pepper selection is paramount when discussing stingers as a pizza topping. The chosen pepper dictates the ensuing taste profile, warmth degree, and general culinary expertise. Pepper kind choice impacts the style, aroma, and potential spice depth of the pizza, making it a vital choice for each pizza makers and customers.
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Candy Peppers (Bell Peppers, Banana Peppers)
Gentle peppers, reminiscent of bell peppers or banana peppers, present a refined sweetness and crunch. Their light taste enhances different pizza elements with out overpowering them. Whereas technically “stingers” when it comes to their visible and textural contribution, they lack vital warmth and are thus fitted to customers with low spice tolerance. Yellow peppers or inexperienced peppers are extensively out there.
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Medium-Warmth Peppers (Pepperoncini, Poblano)
Pepperoncini provide a tangy, barely candy taste with a gentle warmth. Poblano peppers contribute a smoky undertone with a delicate heat. These are frequent selections for these looking for a balanced taste profile with a perceptible, but manageable, degree of spiciness. Their use depends upon the regional availability of the peppers.
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Excessive-Warmth Peppers (Jalapeo, Serrano)
Jalapeos ship a noticeable warmth with a grassy taste. Serrano peppers present a sharper, extra intense warmth in comparison with jalapeos. These peppers cater to people preferring a big degree of spice of their pizza. The spiciness and the quantity must be rigorously chosen when getting ready the pizza. The peppers will not be for the faint of coronary heart.
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Specialty Peppers (Cherry Peppers, Calabrian Peppers)
Cherry peppers provide a candy and tangy taste, typically pickled, with a average warmth. Calabrian peppers ship a fruity, spicy, and barely smoky taste. These specialty peppers present distinctive taste dimensions that elevate pizza to a connoisseur degree. These are tougher to search out relying on location, however present a really completely different kick to a pizza with a little bit of sweetness.
Finally, the choice of pepper selection for stingers as a pizza topping is a matter of non-public choice and desired taste profile. Understanding the traits of various peppers allows knowledgeable selections that lead to a tailor-made and satisfying pizza expertise. The choice must be together with the flavour for the very best stingers pizza topping consequence.
2. Spice Stage
The spice degree of stingers employed as a pizza topping essentially defines the sensory expertise of the ultimate product. The depth of warmth contributed by these peppers straight influences client notion and dictates the general palatability of the pizza. Cautious consideration of spice degree is, due to this fact, essential in crafting a pizza that appeals to the meant viewers.
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Scoville Scale Impression
The Scoville scale gives a standardized measurement of the pungency (spiciness or “warmth”) of chili peppers. The kind of pepper used as a stinger pizza topping must be straight correlated to the Scoville Warmth Models (SHU) score of that pepper. A bell pepper, with a SHU of 0, introduces no discernible warmth, whereas a habanero, with a SHU vary of 100,000-350,000, delivers intense spiciness. Understanding the Scoville scale informs the exact management of the warmth degree launched by stingers.
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Buyer Choice Segmentation
Client preferences for spice range significantly. Some people actively search extremely spicy meals, whereas others desire milder flavors. Pizza institutions have to cater to this numerous vary of palates. Providing pizzas with various stinger spice ranges allows companies to successfully section their buyer base and supply choices that fulfill particular person preferences. A light, medium and sizzling pizza possibility is preferable for optimum success.
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Sensory Interplay and Taste Masking
The warmth from stingers interacts with different flavors current within the pizza. Excessive spice ranges can probably masks refined flavors of different elements, reminiscent of delicate cheeses or herbs. Conversely, a average spice degree can improve and complement current flavors, making a extra advanced and balanced style profile. The extent must be chosen with different toppings in consideration.
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Capsaicin Focus and Notion
Capsaicin is the lively part in chili peppers that produces the feeling of warmth. The focus of capsaicin within the stingers straight correlates with the perceived spice degree. Elements such because the freshness of the peppers and the strategy of preparation (e.g., pickling, roasting) can affect capsaicin focus and, consequently, the perceived spiciness of the pizza.
The interaction between the Scoville scale, buyer choice segmentation, sensory interplay, and capsaicin focus demonstrates the complexity of spice degree because it pertains to stingers on pizza. A well-considered strategy to deciding on and getting ready stingers, taking these components under consideration, is crucial for delivering a pizza that’s each flavorful and pleasurable for the buyer. The quantity of stingers added is simply as essential as the kind of pepper that the stingers got here from.
3. Preparation Technique
The preparation methodology considerably influences the flavour profile, texture, and general influence of stingers as a pizza topping. Alterations in preparation trigger direct and measurable results on the ultimate sensory expertise. Totally different strategies serve to emphasise or mitigate particular qualities inherent within the pepper, thus demonstrating the vital significance of preparation as a part.
Take into account, for instance, the distinction between fresh-sliced jalapenos and pickled banana peppers. Recent jalapenos provide a crisp texture and quick warmth, whereas pickled banana peppers contribute a softened texture, tangy taste, and decreased warmth as a result of pickling course of. Roasting peppers earlier than utility introduces a smoky sweetness, contrasting sharply with the intense acidity of vinegar-cured pepperoncini. The preparation serves as a management mechanism, permitting for personalization of the stinger’s contribution to the pizza. If peppers will not be ready correctly, they may make the pizza soggy.
Efficient utilization of stingers as a pizza topping requires a radical understanding of the interaction between pepper selection and preparation methodology. Challenges come up when inconsistent or improper preparation strategies are employed, leading to a pizza that fails to satisfy anticipated requirements. Finally, consideration to the preparation methodology ensures that stingers contribute positively to the general pizza expertise, enhancing taste and texture fairly than detracting from it. The flavour and texture might be fully completely different relying on the preparation methodology.
4. Regional Choice
Regional preferences exert a big affect on the utilization and notion of stingers as a pizza topping. The provision of particular pepper varieties, historic culinary traditions, and localized style preferences collectively decide the prominence and magnificence of this topping throughout completely different geographic areas. Analyzing regional variances illuminates the adaptability of pizza as a culinary canvas and highlights the function of native tradition in shaping its composition. The particular preferences rely upon native availability of the particular peppers which are chosen for the pizza topping.
For example, sure areas could exhibit a predilection for spicier stingers, reflecting a broader cultural inclination towards hotter meals. In distinction, different areas would possibly favor milder peppers or particular preparation types, reminiscent of pickling, to mitigate the warmth. Take into account the variations between the Southwestern United States, the place jalapeos and different chili peppers are generally integrated into numerous dishes, and the Midwestern United States, the place milder banana peppers or pepperoncini could be extra prevalent on pizzas. These regional variations necessitate that pizza institutions tailor their choices to satisfy native expectations and preferences. This implies every area has its personal native tackle a stingers pizza topping.
In abstract, the connection between regional choice and stingers as a pizza topping underscores the significance of culinary context. Understanding and adapting to localized tastes is essential for guaranteeing client satisfaction and market success. The variety in pepper availability, historic culinary practices, and client palates throughout areas emphasizes the necessity for flexibility and knowledgeable decision-making when incorporating stingers into pizza recipes. Subsequently, pizza makers have to do their analysis on the native choice of what stingers pizza topping ought to include.
5. Taste Profile
The flavour profile of a pizza that includes stingers as a topping is straight and profoundly impacted by the particular pepper selection chosen and the strategy of its preparation. These parts will not be merely additions however fairly outline parts that form the general sensory expertise. The choice of a gentle banana pepper, for instance, introduces a subtly candy and tangy be aware, contrasting sharply with the extreme warmth and vegetal undertones of a jalapeo. Pickling processes impart acidity, additional altering the flavour profile, whereas roasting can introduce smoky complexities. As a consequence, understanding and intentionally manipulating these variables is vital for attaining a desired taste consequence.
Sensible utility of this understanding is obvious in pizza institutions focusing on customizable taste profiles. For example, a pizzeria would possibly provide a “Candy Warmth” pizza that includes pineapple, prosciutto, and pickled pepperoncini, designed to ship a balanced mixture of sweetness, saltiness, and delicate spiciness. Conversely, a “Inferno” pizza may mix ghost peppers, serranos, and a fiery tomato sauce to cater to clients looking for excessive warmth. The strategic pairing of stingers with different elements additionally impacts the flavour profile. Pairing stingers with creamy cheeses, like ricotta or mozzarella, will help to mood the warmth and add richness. Incorporating acidic parts, reminiscent of tomatoes or balsamic glaze, can complement the tanginess of the peppers and improve the general taste complexity.
In abstract, the flavour profile is an inherent and significant facet of stingers as a pizza topping. A deep comprehension of how pepper selection, preparation methodology, and ingredient pairings work together is crucial for crafting pizzas which are each balanced and interesting. Challenges come up when there’s a disconnect between the meant taste profile and the precise consequence, resulting in buyer dissatisfaction. Finally, a deliberate and knowledgeable strategy to taste profile administration is paramount for optimizing the sensory expertise and maximizing the enchantment of pizzas that includes stingers. The stability is a very powerful half.
6. Pizza Type
The chosen pizza model inherently dictates the suitability and utility of stingers as a topping. Skinny-crust pizzas, for example, necessitate a even handed use of toppings to stop structural compromise and guarantee even baking. Consequently, the stingers employed on a thin-crust pizza are sometimes thinly sliced and sparsely distributed to keep away from overwhelming the crust’s structural integrity. Deep-dish pizzas, conversely, possess a extra sturdy structural framework, allowing a better amount and number of toppings, together with a extra beneficiant utility of stingers. The kind of crust determines how a lot stingers pizza topping must be added.
New York-style pizzas, characterised by their massive, foldable slices, steadily incorporate stingers as a complementary taste ingredient, typically paired with conventional toppings reminiscent of pepperoni or sausage. The stingers contribute a contrasting spicy or tangy be aware to stability the savory flavors. Detroit-style pizzas, with their thick, rectangular crusts and caramelized cheese edges, could make the most of stingers so as to add a layer of complexity and warmth to the wealthy, tacky basis. A wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, valued for its simplicity and contemporary elements, usually options stingers sparingly, permitting the pure flavors of the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to stay outstanding. Regional types and variations typically decide whether or not or not stingers is a suitable topping.
In abstract, the inherent traits of a given pizza model straight affect the style through which stingers are utilized and perceived. Skinny-crust, deep-dish, and New York-style pizzas every current distinctive issues for topping distribution and taste stability. Understanding this connection is essential for attaining a harmonious and pleasurable pizza expertise. Subsequently, it is as much as the pizza chef and customers to resolve on the model and the way stingers match that model.
7. Warmth Tolerance
Warmth tolerance, the capability to resist the feeling of spiciness derived from chili peppers, straight dictates a person’s enjoyment of pizza incorporating stingers as a topping. The Scoville scale, a measurement of the pungency of chili peppers, gives a quantifiable framework for understanding this connection. An individual with low warmth tolerance could discover even delicate pepperoncini stingers overwhelming, experiencing discomfort fairly than taste enhancement. Conversely, a person with excessive warmth tolerance could understand jalapeno or serrano stingers as including a fascinating kick with out inflicting undue misery. The kind of peppers on the pizza are solely nearly as good as the warmth tolerance of the buyer.
Actual-life examples illustrate this precept. A pizzeria providing a “Ghost Pepper Pizza” caters explicitly to these with a excessive warmth tolerance, understanding that the acute spiciness will probably be a draw for a choose clientele. A household pizza night time, nonetheless, could necessitate a milder stinger choice, reminiscent of banana peppers, to accommodate various ranges of warmth tolerance amongst relations. The choice is vital for the buyer to benefit from the stingers pizza topping. Eating places are clever to supply all kinds of selections to extend the variety of customers who get pleasure from their pizza. The significance of matching the flavour and the warmth are key for fulfillment.
In conclusion, warmth tolerance represents a vital issue within the profitable integration of stingers as a pizza topping. An understanding of particular person warmth preferences, coupled with a transparent consciousness of the Scoville scores of various peppers, allows knowledgeable selections that optimize the pizza expertise. The problem lies in offering choices that cater to a spectrum of warmth tolerances, guaranteeing that every one customers can discover a pizza with stingers that they discover palatable and pleasurable. The sensible significance of this understanding can’t be overstated, because it straight impacts buyer satisfaction and the general success of the pizza providing. It is only one part, nonetheless, within the make-up of a scrumptious pizza.
8. Availability
The accessibility of particular pepper varieties essentially influences the feasibility and prevalence of stingers as a pizza topping inside a given area or market. The financial viability and widespread adoption of this topping are contingent upon constant provide chains and the seasonality of pepper cultivation. Restricted availability can constrain menu choices and influence client familiarity with the topping.
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Seasonal Cultivation and Harvesting
Pepper cultivation reveals distinct seasonal patterns. Particular pepper varieties could solely be out there throughout sure instances of the 12 months, dictated by weather conditions and agricultural practices. This seasonality straight impacts the constant availability of stingers as a topping. A pizza restaurant counting on contemporary, domestically sourced peppers may have to regulate its menu seasonally to mirror the altering availability of elements. Out-of-season options, reminiscent of pickled or preserved peppers, can mitigate this difficulty however could alter the flavour profile.
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Geographical Distribution of Pepper Varieties
Sure pepper varieties are primarily cultivated in particular geographic areas as a consequence of favorable local weather and soil situations. The provision of those varieties in different areas depends on transportation infrastructure and distribution networks. For instance, Calabrian peppers, primarily grown in Southern Italy, could also be available in Italian specialty meals shops however much less frequent in mainstream supermarkets in different elements of the world. This geographic disparity impacts the accessibility of particular stinger choices.
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Provide Chain Logistics and Import Rules
The environment friendly transportation and distribution of peppers from farms to customers depend on sturdy provide chain logistics. Import rules and commerce agreements can considerably influence the provision and value of imported pepper varieties. Stringent phytosanitary necessities or import tariffs can restrict the provision of sure peppers, notably these sourced from worldwide places. Provide chain disruptions, reminiscent of these attributable to climate occasions or geopolitical instability, can additional exacerbate these challenges.
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Processing and Preservation Methods
The appliance of processing and preservation strategies, reminiscent of pickling, canning, or drying, extends the shelf life and availability of peppers past their contemporary harvesting season. These strategies permit for a extra constant provide of stingers all year long, no matter seasonal fluctuations. Nevertheless, the processing methodology can alter the flavour, texture, and dietary content material of the peppers, probably affecting their suitability as a pizza topping. A pizza restaurant could select to make use of contemporary peppers when out there and complement with pickled or canned choices in the course of the low season.
These sides collectively show that the seemingly easy ingredient of stingers as a pizza topping is topic to the complexities of agricultural manufacturing, world commerce, and logistical infrastructure. The interaction of those components in the end determines the accessibility, price, and taste profile of the ultimate product, influencing each menu choices and client experiences. Subsequently, availability of sure peppers impacts eating places and whether or not they are going to put stingers on the pizza.
9. Complementary Toppings
The even handed choice of toppings that harmonize with the particular traits of stingers is crucial for optimizing the general gustatory expertise of pizza. Complementary toppings can both amplify fascinating taste notes or mitigate potential imbalances launched by the spiciness or tanginess of the peppers. The function of those pairings extends past mere addition, serving to create a cohesive and well-balanced culinary composition.
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Dairy Merchandise: Cheeses and Lotions
Dairy merchandise, notably cheeses reminiscent of mozzarella, provolone, or ricotta, present a cooling and creamy counterpoint to the warmth generated by stingers. The casein proteins in cheese bind with capsaicin, the compound chargeable for the feeling of spiciness, successfully decreasing its depth. A pizza that includes jalapeno stingers paired with ricotta cheese exemplifies this precept, providing a stability of warmth and richness. The fats content material helps to minimize the spice from the stingers.
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Cured Meats: Pepperoni, Sausage, Prosciutto
Cured meats, reminiscent of pepperoni, sausage, or prosciutto, contribute savory and umami notes that complement the tanginess and warmth of stingers. The saltiness of those meats may improve the notion of spiciness, making a extra advanced and stimulating taste profile. A traditional instance is a pizza combining pepperoni, jalapenos, and mozzarella, showcasing the interaction between spicy, salty, and savory parts. The meats additionally add one other layer of taste that goes properly with the stingers.
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Candy Parts: Pineapple, Onions (Caramelized), Balsamic Glaze
Candy parts, reminiscent of pineapple, caramelized onions, or balsamic glaze, present a contrasting sweetness that balances the warmth of stingers. This sweet-and-spicy mixture is a standard culinary trope, providing a extra nuanced and complicated taste expertise. A pizza that includes pineapple, jalapenos, and ham exemplifies this precept, demonstrating the harmonious interaction between candy, spicy, and savory flavors. It does not work for everybody, however when it does, it is excellent.
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Greens: Mushrooms, Bell Peppers (Non-Spicy), Olives
Greens, reminiscent of mushrooms, bell peppers (non-spicy varieties), or olives, contribute earthy and umami notes that complement the general taste profile of the pizza. These greens may add textural variety, enhancing the sensory expertise. A pizza combining mushrooms, black olives, pepperoncini, and mozzarella showcases the interaction between savory, tangy, and earthy flavors. Mushrooms particularly go properly with the stingers pizza topping and is a standard ingredient.
In conclusion, the cautious choice of complementary toppings is essential for maximizing the potential of stingers as a pizza topping. The interaction between dairy merchandise, cured meats, candy parts, and greens can considerably influence the general taste profile and sensory expertise of the pizza. Subsequently, pizza makers ought to rigorously contemplate these pairings to create balanced, nuanced, and satisfying culinary creations. The right ratio is the important thing to an ideal pie.
Incessantly Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent inquiries and gives factual info relating to the usage of “stingers” as a pizza topping. These questions intention to make clear points of preparation, taste profiles, and regional variations related to this culinary ingredient.
Query 1: What pepper varieties are mostly utilized as “stingers” on pizza?
Pepperoncini, banana peppers, and jalapenos symbolize frequent selections. Nevertheless, regional variations and particular person preferences could dictate the usage of different varieties, starting from delicate bell peppers to stronger serrano peppers.
Query 2: Does the preparation methodology considerably alter the flavour of “stingers” on pizza?
Sure. Pickling, roasting, or serving peppers contemporary dramatically impacts their taste profile. Pickling introduces tanginess, roasting can impart smokiness, and contemporary peppers provide a crisp texture and quick warmth.
Query 3: How does the Scoville scale relate to the choice of “stingers” for pizza?
The Scoville scale measures the pungency (spiciness) of chili peppers. It’s a useful gizmo for choosing pepper varieties that align with desired warmth ranges, catering to various levels of warmth tolerance.
Query 4: Are there particular pizza types that complement “stingers” notably properly?
The suitability of stingers depends upon the general taste profile and structural integrity of the pizza model. Deep-dish pizzas, for instance, can accommodate a extra beneficiant utility of stingers in comparison with thin-crust varieties.
Query 5: What are some beneficial toppings to pair with “stingers” on pizza?
Dairy merchandise (reminiscent of mozzarella or ricotta), cured meats (pepperoni or sausage), and candy parts (pineapple or caramelized onions) can create balanced and complementary taste combos.
Query 6: Does regional choice affect the prominence of “stingers” as a pizza topping?
Sure. The provision of particular pepper varieties, historic culinary traditions, and localized style preferences collectively form the recognition and magnificence of this topping throughout completely different geographic areas.
In abstract, the applying of stingers as a pizza topping is a nuanced course of involving cautious consideration of pepper selection, preparation methodology, warmth tolerance, complementary pairings, and regional preferences. Understanding these components permits for a tailor-made and satisfying culinary expertise.
This concludes the steadily requested questions part. The following part will discover recipe concepts.
Suggestions for Optimizing “Stingers Pizza Topping”
This part gives actionable insights for maximizing the flavour influence and client enchantment of pizzas incorporating “stingers” as a major topping.
Tip 1: Prioritize Pepper Freshness. Freshly sourced peppers exhibit superior taste and texture in comparison with these saved for prolonged durations. The degradation of risky compounds throughout storage diminishes the sensory expertise. Search peppers which are agency, brightly coloured, and free from blemishes.
Tip 2: Perceive Pepper Warmth Ranges. The Scoville scale affords a useful reference for gauging the pungency of various pepper varieties. Implement a warmth index on the menu to permit customers to make knowledgeable picks primarily based on their tolerance.
Tip 3: Management Moisture Content material. Extreme moisture from peppers can compromise the structural integrity of the pizza crust. Pat peppers dry with paper towels earlier than utility, or contemplate pre-roasting to cut back water content material.
Tip 4: Take into account the Impression of Acidity. Pickled peppers introduce acidity that may both complement or conflict with different pizza elements. Stability acidic parts with creamy cheeses or candy parts to realize taste equilibrium.
Tip 5: Optimize Pepper Placement. Distribute peppers evenly throughout the pizza floor to make sure a constant taste expertise in every slice. Keep away from overcrowding, as this may impede correct cooking.
Tip 6: Pre-Prepare dinner Sure Peppers. Sure pepper varieties, reminiscent of bell peppers, profit from pre-cooking (roasting, sauteing) to melt their texture and improve their sweetness earlier than being added to the pizza.
Tip 7: Use Pepper Oils Sparingly. If incorporating pepper-infused oils, train warning to keep away from extreme greasiness. Drizzle oils after baking to protect their taste and aroma.
The following pointers facilitate a extra managed and deliberate utility of “stingers pizza topping,” leading to a extra refined and pleasurable culinary product. Mastering these strategies elevates the pizza expertise.
The following part will current recipe concepts that illustrate the sensible utility of the rules outlined above.
Conclusion
The previous exploration has detailed the multifaceted points of stingers pizza topping. From the choice of particular pepper varieties and their preparation strategies to the affect of regional preferences and complementary ingredient pairings, every ingredient considerably contributes to the ultimate culinary consequence. The interaction of spice degree, warmth tolerance, and pizza model additional refines the nuanced relationship between this topping and the general pizza expertise. Availability and logistics additionally issue closely in whether or not customers even get the choice of this topping. With all of those components to think about, it is a marvel that pizza eating places get it proper.
Finally, a radical understanding of those parameters permits for a extra deliberate and knowledgeable strategy to incorporating this ingredient, optimizing taste profiles and catering to numerous palates. Continued experimentation and a dedication to high quality elements will be certain that stingers pizza topping stays a dynamic and fascinating part of the culinary panorama. It is as much as customers to check the completely different combos and discover the stingers pizza topping that works greatest for them.
