RECIPESPRODUCTSPANTRYSHOPPING
CONDIMENTS AND SAUCES
SOUPS

White Pepper

White pepper is a popular spice derived from the dried, mature berries of the Piper nigrum plant. It is often used as an alternative to black pepper, offering a milder and more delicate flavor. The white color comes from the removal of the outer layer of the peppercorn, known as the pericarp, revealing the inner seed. White pepper is a prevalent ingredient in European, Chinese, Thai, and Malaysian cuisines, often used to provide a subtle heat while maintaining the dish's light appearance. Aside from its culinary uses, white pepper also possesses various health benefits, including promoting digestion, aiding in weight loss, and acting as an anti-inflammatory agent. It's commonly used as a seasoning in soups, sauces, marinades, and white-colored dishes such as mashed potatoes or cream-based soups, where its light color blends unobtrusively. White pepper is also a popular choice for seafood dishes and light-colored sauces due to its less pungent aroma and taste.
#65
IN SEASONINGS
296
CAL / 100G
$5.13
AVG / OZ
white pepper
85%
CARBS
3%
FAT
13%
PROTEIN
White Pepper FAQ
One common mistake people make when cooking with white pepper is overlooking its subtle differences from black pepper. Unlike its black counterpart, white pepper has a milder, more nuanced flavor. Using too much white pepper in a dish can actually overpower the delicate flavors you are trying to highlight. When grinding, it's advised to do so sparingly and taste regularly, adding more as needed rather than all at once. Another misconception involves the timing of adding white pepper in cooking. While some spices benefit from being added early in the cooking process to develop flavor, white pepper tends to lose its subtle flavor notes when exposed to prolonged heat. It is best added towards the end of cooking or even just before serving. Getting the most out of white pepper involves using it in appropriate dishes- those that require a subtler spicing or where a darker speck would be visually unappealing. It also pairs well with eggs, fish, and other seafood, chicken, veal, and vegetable dishes, as well as creamy soups and sauces.
Can I use whole white peppercorns or should I grind it?
Is white pepper spicier than black pepper?
Why use white pepper in Chinese cooking?
Is white pepper healthier than black pepper?
Does white pepper taste different than black pepper?
Why does white pepper cost more than black pepper?
Are white pepper and black pepper the same?
Can I substitute white pepper for black pepper and vice versa?
Why does white pepper smell bad?
When should I use white pepper over black pepper?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does white pepper expire?
White pepper in its whole form can last almost indefinitely, but once ground it starts to lose potency and flavor within about three to four years. However, it will not truly 'expire' or become unsafe to eat for much longer. Still, for freshest taste, it's generally recommended to replace ground white pepper every one to two years. If stored in the freezer, the quality of ground white pepper can retain for about a year.
How do you tell if white pepper is bad?
It's difficult to tell if ground white pepper has gone bad, but you might notice it losing its potent smell and flavor over time. It often becomes bland and less peppery. Likewise, whole peppercorns will also lose their scent but may last longer than the ground pepper. Mold or bugs in your pepper are sure signs it has gone bad and should be discarded immediately.
Tips for storing white pepper to extend shelf life
• Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and light, like a pantry or spice drawer. • Keep the pepper in an airtight container to prevent moisture and bugs from getting in. • Don't use your pepper directly over steaming pots or boiling water, as the steam might seep into the bottle, causing clumps and potential mold growth. • Consider buying whole peppercorns and grind as needed. This will help to maintain the potency and flavor of your pepper for longer. • If you need to store white pepper for longer periods, consider freezing it. Wrap ground white pepper in airtight bags and store it in the freezer. Remember, flavor degradation happens faster once it is back to room temperature, so ideally, use it straight from the freezer and return it back immediately.
EXPIRES WITHIN
3 - 4.8
YEARS
Health Info
Macros
1g
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
Recipes with what you have
Download Cooklist
Get the app to track inventory, save recipes, build meal plans and order groceries from local stores.
Scan to download
QR Code