Black Pepper
Black pepper is one of the world’s most traded spices and has been highly valued throughout history. It played a significant role in the spice trade routes of the ancient world and was sometimes referred to as "black gold.
Black pepper comes in various forms, including:
Whole Peppercorns: These are the whole dried fruit of the pepper plant and are available in different colours such as black, white, green, and red.
Black Pepper: This is the most common type and is made by drying the unripe green berries of the pepper plant until they turn black and wrinkled.
White Pepper: White pepper is made from fully ripe berries that have had the outer layer removed, leaving behind the inner seed. It has a milder flavour compared to black pepper.
Green Pepper: Green pepper is made from unripe berries that are harvested early in the ripening process and then dried or preserved in brine or vinegar.
Red Pepper: Red pepper, also known as pink pepper, comes from a different plant species than black pepper. It has a fruity and slightly spicy flavour. Each type of black pepper has its own unique flavour profile and uses in cooking.
Health Benefits: Black pepper is not just a flavour enhancer; it also has several potential health benefits. It may aid digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and possess antioxidant and antibacterial properties.