Pepper

Description

Pepper is a basic spice with a distinct, peppery, slightly pungent flavor and aroma, with citrus or woody notes depending on the variety; black grains are wrinkled and intense, green are fresh, and white are subtler. From a nutritional standpoint, pepper is low in calories and rich in bioactive compounds, primarily piperine and antioxidants, which support digestion, have anti-inflammatory properties, and improve the absorption of certain nutrients. In the kitchen, pepper goes well with practically everything, from meats, soups, and sauces to salads, eggs, and cheeses, often used together with salt as a basic seasoning and in marinades and spice blends. To preserve its aroma, it is best to store whole pepper in a sealed, dark, and dry place; ground pepper retains freshness for a much shorter time, so it is worth grinding the grains just before use.