Peppercorns are the fruit of the Piper nigrum plant, and they are one of the most popular spices in the world. Peppercorns can be used whole or ground, and they have a sharp, pungent flavour that is perfect for adding a bit of heat to dishes. There are many different types of peppercorns, including black, white, green, and pink peppercorns.
Peppercorns can be used in many different dishes, both savoury and sweet. They are a great addition to rubs for grilled meats, and they can also be added to sauces, soups, and stews. Peppercorns are also popular in Indian cuisine, where they are used in curries and other spicy dishes.
Types of Peppercorns
Black Peppercorns
Black peppercorns are the most common type of peppercorns, and they are typically what you will find in your local grocery store. Black peppercorns have a sharp, pungent flavour that is perfect for adding heat to dishes.
White Peppercorns
White peppercorns are less common but have a milder flavour than black peppercorns. White peppercorns are ideal for dishes where you don’t want to add too much heat.
Green Peppercorns
Green peppercorns are immature black peppercorns that have a slightly fruity flavour. Green peppercorns are perfect for dishes where you want a bit of sweetness without adding too much heat.
Recipes use peppercorn
1. Grilled steak with black pepper sauce
1 pound flank steak, trimmed
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rub steak with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Grill for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the desired doneness is reached.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic, and parsley.
4. Serve steak with sauce on the side.
2. Black pepper chicken
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 green onion, thinly sliced
Directions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken cubes and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Add chicken broth, soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in green onion. Serve over rice or noodles.
3. Peppermint chocolate cake
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour one 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk. Stir in chocolate chips.
4. Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 minutes. Cool cake before serving.
Health benefits of peppercorn
1. Peppercorns are a good source of dietary fibre, which can help you feel full and satisfied after eating.
2. Fibre can also help to regulate digestion and prevent constipation.
3. Peppercorns are high in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from free radicals and oxidative stress.
4. Antioxidants may also play a role in preventing cancer and other chronic diseases.
5. Peppercorns are also a good source of vitamin B6, which is important for energy production and healthy brain function.
6. Vitamin B6 can also help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
