Peppercorns - Bulk Herbs & Spices from Avon Spice Company

Description
Black and White Pepper are both obtained from the small dried berry of the vine Piper nigrum. For Black Pepper, the berries are picked while still green, allowed to ferment and are then sun-dried until they shrivel and turn a brownish-black color. They have a hot, piney taste.

Uses
Black Pepper adds flavor to almost every food of every nation in the world. It is used in rubs, spice blends, salad dressings, and peppercorn blends.

Origins
The principal exporters for Black Pepper are India (Malabar and Tellicherry Pepper), Indonesia (Lampong Pepper), Brazil and Malaysia. Tellicherry is actually a special type of Malabar Pepper designated for its bold size and uniform appearance. Both have excellent flavor, aroma and pungency properties. The flavor and aroma of Lampong Pepper is similar to the Malabar type. The Malaysian and Brazilian varieties are relatively milder in flavor.

Folklore
Because pepper can be stored for many years without losing its flavor and aroma, it has long been known as the master spice. Pepper was so precious in ancient times that it was used as money to pay taxes, tributes, dowries, and rent. It was weighed like gold and used as a common medium of exchange. In A.D. 410, when Rome was captured, 3,000 pounds of pepper were demanded as ransom.

Black and White Pepper are both obtained from the small dried berry of the vine Piper nigrum. For White Pepper, the berry is picked when fully ripe. The outer layer of shunken skin is removed, leaving the dried, grayish-white kernel. It has a milder, more delicate flavor than Black Pepper.

White Pepper is used whole in pickling spices and marinades. Ground White Pepper is used in light colored foods such as sauces and soups. It is especially popular in European cuisine.

The major exporter of White Pepper is Indonesia, but other important sources are Malaysia (Sawawak) and Brazil. Indonesian or Muntok White Pepper has a good overall appearance and distinctive flavor. Sarawak Pepper is bolder and more uniform in color than the Muntok variety, but little is imported into the United States. Brazilian Pepper is the mildest flavored.

� Avon Spice Company
PO Box 419
Purdys NY 10578