Black pepper (whole)
Description
Black pepper (whole) is the dried fruit of piper nigrum with dark brown, wrinkled grains and a distinctive, spicy-aromatic scent with a slightly citrus and resinous note. As a spice, it provides a sharp, long-lasting flavor accent that enhances the intensity of dishes without overpowering other ingredients. It is low in calories and provides small amounts of fiber, minerals, and phenolic compounds; the main active ingredient, piperine, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, aids digestion, and increases the bioavailability of certain nutrients, such as curcumin. In the kitchen, whole pepper is versatile — it pairs well with meats, fish, vegetables, soups, sauces, marinades, and dressings, and it works excellently as a finishing spice for steaks, salads, and eggs. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place; whole grains retain their aroma much longer than ground pepper, so it's worth grinding them just before use.
