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Black Pepper

Black pepper, also known as Piper nigrum, is a flowering vine in the Piperaceae family, cultivated for its fruit, commonly referred to as peppercorns. Native to India's Malabar Coast, these tiny, dried, unripe drupes are widely used as a spice and seasoning worldwide, often paired with salt. Black pepper has long been valued for its pungent flavor, aroma, and potential health benefits. In cooking, whole, cracked, or ground black pepper can enhance the savoriness and depth of flavor in various dishes. Home cooks and consumers can use black pepper, a rich source of nutrients that may contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, for seasoning soups, salads, meats, and many other savory dishes. Additionally, freshly ground pepper is considered superior in flavor compared to pre-ground varieties, making a pepper grinder an essential kitchen tool.
#6
IN SEASONINGS
250
CAL / 100G
$0.72
AVG / OZ
black pepper
82%
CARBS
4%
FAT
13%
PROTEIN
Black Pepper FAQ
Black pepper is a versatile and powerful kitchen ingredient with a long history of use. Its distinctive taste can dramatically enhance the flavor of a wide range of dishes. However, many home cooks don't get the most out of this spice due to a number of common mistakes. Using pre-ground black pepper is one of the most common mistakes because it lacks the freshness and potency of freshly ground peppercorns. Another common issue is skimping on the amount of pepper used, as it takes a fair amount of this spice to bring out the best in your food. Beyond the kitchen, black pepper has traditional medicinal uses and potential health benefits due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Is fresh ground black pepper better than pre-ground?
Can I use black pepper in place of white pepper?
Why is black pepper so commonly paired with salt?
I have a recipe that calls for cracked black pepper. What does it mean?
Is black pepper good for your health?
Where should I use black pepper in cooking?
Should I add black pepper at the beginning or end of cooking?
Does black pepper lose its taste over time?
Can I use black pepper to spice up my vegetarian/vegan dishes?
Why is black pepper used in nearly all recipes?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does black pepper expire?
Unopened black pepper can last for about 3 to 4 years if stored properly, even past the best-by date printed on the package. Once opened, ground black pepper will generally stay at best quality for about 2 to 3 years, while whole peppercorns can keep their flavor for an impressive 4 to 5 years. In the freezer, black pepper will retain best flavor for about 1 to 2 years.
How do you tell if black pepper is bad?
The easiest way to check if your black pepper has gone bad is by smell. Fresh black pepper has a strong, pungent aroma, so if the smell is weak or nonexistent, it's most likely past its prime. Besides smell, loss of flavor is also a good indicator that the pepper is stale.
Tips for storing black pepper to extend shelf life
• Keep black pepper in a cool, dark, dry place to best preserve its flavor. A pantry or spice cabinet away from the heat of the stove is ideal. • If possible, buy whole peppercorns and grind them yourself. Whole peppercorns will retain their flavor for longer than pre-ground pepper. • Consider storing pepper in an air-tight container or in a pepper grinder with a tight seal to prevent exposure to air which can hasten flavor loss. • While it's not common, you can store black pepper in the freezer. Doing so can help it maintain its flavor for longer, especially if you've accidentally bought a large amount.
EXPIRES WITHIN
2 - 3.6
YEARS
Health Info
Macros
0g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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