The King of Spice, Whole Black Peppercorns
Botanically known as Piper Nigrum, black pepper is the world's most traded and consumed spice, and with good reason. It tastes great and adds a mild but spicy kick to many dishes. Its versatility is quite unmatched and it's hard to find a savory dish that doesn't at least call for black pepper to taste. Black pepper is used in cooking worldwide for so many recipes you could easily write a book on its many uses across the globe. Take the classic French Steak au Poivre—this dish certainly wouldn't be the same without black pepper.
Here at Slofoodgroup, we find whole black pepper to be an especially phenomenal addition to red meats, stews, wild game (such as venison), salads, and roasted potatoes. We avoid using black peppercorns with fish and other seafood, using white pepper, instead. That's not to say you should pull black pepper from your favorite recipe if it suits your fancy–the glorious thing about culinary arts is every chef can take the liberty to add or eliminate ingredients as they see fit. A little salt and pepper go a long way in really bringing out the flavor in food that it would be a culinary shame to cook without. One might even say, food would be bland and boring without salt or pepper.
Why buy whole black peppercorns from Sri Lanka?
How are black peppercorns different from other peppercorns?
Facts about Sri Lankan Black Peppercorns
Compromising less than two percent of the world's supply of black pepper, Sri Lankan black pepper is known for higher piperine content. Piperine is the compound that is responsible for the recognizable flavor and aroma of black pepper and it is the high level of piperine in Sri Lankan peppercorns which makes them superior in quality regarding flavor and aroma.
Black peppercorns, like most other peppercorns, reign from the Piper Nigrum plant. Black, green, red, and white pepper are all the same berries from the same plant. The difference is found in when they are harvested and how they are preserved. To produce black peppercorns, the berries are picked before they have ripened. They are then briefly cooked and dried until the outer skin turns black. It's this process that produces that sharp, spicy flavor we all know and love so well.
Interested in learning more about black pepper? Check out this short article about where does black pepper come from
*Our black peppercorns are non-GMO and certified kosher by EarthKosher.
- Sri Lankan black peppercorns come from the Piper nigrum plant: a tropical vine indigenous to South Asia. Sri Lanka, known for its rich spice heritage grow on average two percent of the worlds supply of pepper and cultivates this plant extensively for culinary and Ayurvedic purposes
- Peppercorns from Sri Lanka are commonly referred to as Ceylon peppercorns, the term Ceylon is an ode to Sri Lanka's previous colonial name and most commonly associated with Ceylon cinnamon
- Flavor and aroma: floral, citrus and strong pungency
- Black Peppercorns from Sri Lanka are considered a premium peppercorn due to the high piperine content
- 550 G/L whole black pepper, kosher certified. The same tropical vine which berries produce black peppercorns, also produce white peppercorns and green peppercorns depending on when the berries are harvested and the processing method used
Questions fréquemment posées
- Whole black peppercorn is commonly used as a seasoning to add flavor and heat to dishes. It can be ground into a powder using a pepper mill or mortar and pestle, or used whole in soups, stews, marinades, and sauces. Additionally, it is a versatile spice that pairs well with a wide range of ingredients, from meats and salads and potatoes.
- Yes, black pepper can be used as a substitute for whole black peppercorns in most recipes.
- Yes, whole black peppercorn and black pepper are essentially the same thing. Whole black peppercorn refers to the dried fruit of the Piper nigrum plant, while black pepper is the ground form of these dried fruits. Both whole black peppercorn and black pepper share the same distinctive flavor profile and are used interchangeably in cooking to add heat and flavor to dishes.
- Crushing whole black peppercorns is a simple process that can be done using various tools. One common method is to use a pepper mill or grinder specifically designed for grinding peppercorns. Simply load the peppercorns into the mill and twist the top or turn the handle to grind them into a coarse or fine powder, depending on your preference. Another option is to use a mortar and pestle, where you place the peppercorns in the mortar and grind them with the pestle until you achieve the desired consistency. Alternatively, you can place the peppercorns in a resealable plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. Whichever method you choose, ensure that the peppercorns are crushed evenly to release their full flavor.
- Yes, black peppercorns can be eaten whole, but they are extremely pungent and may cause a strong, spicy sensation in the mouth. Consuming whole black peppercorns is not common due to their intense flavor and texture.
- Whole black peppercorn can be found directly here on our website at Slofoodgroup.
- Black peppercorn is costly due to labor-intensive cultivation, manual harvesting and processing, transportation challenges from remote regions, and its premium status in culinary traditions.
- To maintain its flavor and potency, whole black peppercorn should be stored properly. It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight and moisture, preferably in a cool, dark pantry or cupboard. Additionally, storing it away from heat sources such as stoves or ovens helps preserve its volatile oils, ensuring maximum flavor retention. Properly stored, whole black peppercorn can retain its quality for up to two to three years.
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Sri Lankan Black Peppercorns
These peppercorns are truly top quality! Best peppercorns we have ever purchased! Try it, you will not be disappointed.
Great quality
Dried shiitakes are the best quality I’ve had, almost like fresh. Madagascar extract grade B beans arrived fast, vacuum sealed, smell divine. This 3x extract batch looks and smells richer, tastier just 2 months in (vs a less expensive bean I ordered from them 1.5 years ago for a 2x batch. Peppercorns are notably more flavorful than store bought, even high quality peppercorns from specialty grocers. Very pleased with the quality, value, and customer service. Website also has good info and tips. Thanks Slofood team!
Very pleased...
These are top quality and the aroma when opening the bag says all I need to know.
Pepper
Great experience and fast delivery. The packaging was wonderful and the peppercorns are fantastic
Peppercorn
I absolutely love these peppercorns I always make a extract with some it’s so delicious in marinades