You may be surprised to learn that black pepper is the world’s most traded spice. It is used in cuisines all over the globe and has been prized for its flavour and medicinal properties for thousands of years.
The history of black pepper is shrouded in mystery, but it is thought to have originated in southern India. From there, it spread to other parts of Asia and Europe. Black pepper was so highly prized by traders and merchants that it became known as “the king of spices.”Black pepper has a pungent, peppery flavour that can add a kick to any dish.
Recipes That Include This spice “Black Pepper”
1. Roasted Black Pepper Chicken
1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Directions:
1.Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
2.In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt and black pepper. Toss to coat well.
3.Spread the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, or until cooked through. Remove from oven and
2. Spicy Black Pepper Shrimp
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1 shallot, chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Directions:
1.In a small skillet, toast the cumin seeds, coriander seeds and peppercorns over medium heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Let cool.
2.Using a mortar and pestle, grind the toasted spices until finely ground.
3.In a large skillet or wok, heat 1/4 cup of oil over high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic, shallot, jalapeño pepper and ground spices. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are cooked through, about 3 minutes.
4.Remove from heat and drizzle with more oil if desired. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the cilantro leaves before serving.
3. Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry
1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced across the grain
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons sugar
1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil, plus more if needed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
Directions:
1.In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, baking soda, soy sauce, sugar, rice wine or sherry, and black pepper. Add the beef and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2.In a large skillet or wok over high heat, 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 2 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3.Add more oil to the pan if needed. Add the garlic, onion, bell peppers, and black pepper. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender crisp.
4.Return the beef to the pan and toss all ingredients together. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.
Health Benefits of Black Pepper
1. Black pepper can help improve digestion.
2. It can help reduce inflammation.
3. It has antibacterial properties.
4. Black pepper can help regulate blood sugar levels.
5. And lastly, black pepper is a natural antioxidant.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever cooked a meal, you’ve probably used black pepper. Black pepper is the most popular spice in the world, and for good reason – it tastes great! This article we taught you everything you need to know about black pepper, from its history to its health benefits.
