Black Pepper
Botanically known as Piper nigrum, is a flowering vine in the pepper family (Piperaceae). It is native to southwestern India, particularly the Malabar region. Today, black pepper is grown in many tropical regions around the world, including Vietnam, Indonesia, and Brazil.
Look
The pepper plant is a perennial climbing plant that grows up trees or supports and can reach a height of up to 4 meters. It has heart-shaped, shiny leaves and bears small white flowers in long clusters. The fruits are small, spherical berries that are green at first and turn red when ripe. Black pepper is produced by drying the unripe, still green berries, which turn black and wrinkled in the process.
Taste and Aroma
Black pepper has a hot, spicy and slightly woody taste, which is due to the piperine content. Its aroma is intense and complex, with notes of citrus, pine and a slight spiciness. Black pepper is one of the most widely used spices in the world and adds a spicy note to many dishes.