Whole pepper

Description

Whole pepper is the dried, hard fruit of the climbing plant Piper nigrum, usually black, less often white, green, or pink, with a spherical shape and an intense, spicy-aromatic scent with subtle notes of citrus and resin. The taste is sharp, warming, and lingers on the palate, with the level of spiciness depending on the variety and freshness of the grains. Nutritionally, pepper is low in calories, providing fiber, trace minerals, and phenolic compounds; the piperine it contains has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and enhances the absorption of certain ingredients, such as curcumin. In the kitchen, whole pepper works well with meats, sauces, soups, marinades, and dressings, greatly enhancing the flavor of dishes both during cooking and as a freshly ground addition at the end. It should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place; whole grains retain their aroma much longer than ground pepper.