Black pepper
Description
Black pepper, obtained from the unripe fruits of Piper nigrum, has an intense, peppery, and slightly bitter aroma, along with dark, wrinkled grains. Its flavor is sharp and warming, adding character to dishes without overpowering other ingredients. From a nutritional standpoint, pepper provides small amounts of vitamins and minerals, with piperine being the main active compound, which exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, aids digestion, and enhances the absorption of certain nutrients, such as curcumin. It may also have antiseptic properties. In the kitchen, black pepper pairs well with almost everything: meats, soups, sauces, vegetables, salads, and marinades, as well as gourmet dishes, where it enhances flavor without overwhelming. It is best to use freshly ground pepper, as it retains the most aroma. Store it in an airtight, opaque container, away from light, heat, and moisture; whole peppercorns retain their aroma much longer than ground pepper.
