Black pepper is one of the most popular spices in the world, and for good reason – it tastes delicious! This blog post will explore everything you need to know about black pepper. We’ll discuss its origin, how it’s used in the culinary world, its medicinal benefits, and other interesting facts about this versatile spice.
The origin of black pepper
This is a bit of a mystery. Some believe that it originated in India, while others believe that it originated in China. Whichever country is responsible for black pepper’s creation, we are grateful for it!
When was black pepper discovered?
This, too, is a bit of a mystery. One theory is that it was discovered by Marco Polo during his travels to China in the 13th Century. Another theory is that black pepper was being traded between India and China long before Marco Polo’s time.
Black pepper in the culinary world
Black pepper is often used in savoury dishes to add a bit of heat and flavour. It pairs well with meats, vegetables and even fruits. Australian black pepper is especially popular due to its unique flavour profile.
In addition to being used in the culinary world, black pepper also has medicinal benefits. It can be used to treat colds and flu, aid in digestion, and even act as a natural pesticide. Just mix some black pepper with water and spray it on your plants to keep pests away.
Here are some other fun facts about black pepper:
- Black pepper is the world’s most traded spice.
- It is usually harvested by hand.
- It takes approximately five years for a black pepper plant to mature.
- Black peppercorns can be used whole or ground into a powder.
Australian black pepper
While peppercorns grow predominantly in places like India, Malaysia and Indonesia, there are black pepper farms in places like Silkwood and Innisfail in North Queensland, which has a similar latitude and climate to those Southeast Asian countries. As for mountain pepper, you’ll find this native species grown and harvested in regions like Tasmania, Victoria and southeast New South Wales.
There are plenty of varieties of Australian black pepper and other pepper varieties available online, with efficient and reliable delivery to your door anywhere in Australia. Be sure to add Australian black pepper to your next meal for a delicious flavour boost.
