Black Peppercorns from Kerala

Livré en sachet refermable 

1. Who am I?

The Kerala pepper, originating from the state of Kerala in India, is a true pepper (Piper nigrum) renowned for its quality and unique character. Grown in an ideal tropical climate marked by monsoons, this pepper is distinguished by its dark brown/black wrinkled grains, measuring about 3 mm. Its aroma is powerful, fruity, and slightly floral, while on the palate, it reveals intense heat accompanied by a delightful hint of hazelnut. It is a noble pepper suitable for all types of pepper mills and will enhance the flavor of both your simplest and most elaborate dishes.

2. Uses in Cooking

Kerala pepper is extremely versatile and can be used in many preparations:

• Meats: It perfectly enhances red meats, steaks, duck breast, or even roasts.

• Sauces: Add it to your creamy or butter sauces for a spicy and aromatic touch.

• Vegetables: Flavor your roasted, mashed, or sautéed vegetables to give them a refined taste.

• Fish: Sprinkle it over grilled fish or a seafood salad for a zesty note.

You can use it ground directly from a pepper mill or crush it in a mortar to fully release its aromas before adding it to your dishes.

3. A Little History

Pepper, often referred to as the "king of spices," has played a central role in the history of international trade. Originating from the Malabar coast in Kerala, pepper was already used by Alexander the Great and the Romans. Its value was such that it served as currency during the Middle Ages, hence the expression "to pay in cash." This precious treasure was also the catalyst for major maritime explorations when the Portuguese sought to circumvent the Italian monopoly on its trade.

In 1498, Vasco da Gama opened the famous spice route, connecting Europe to India, with Kerala being one of the main pepper-producing regions. This trade would later be dominated by the Dutch and the English, thanks to their East India Companies.

4. Recipe Ideas

• Beef with Kerala Pepper:

  • Ingredients: Beef fillet, Kerala pepper, fresh cream, Cognac.
  • Preparation: Grind the Kerala pepper, generously season the beef fillet, and cook it in a pan. Deglaze with Cognac and stir in the cream to create a creamy and aromatic sauce.

• Mashed Potatoes with Kerala Pepper:

  • Ingredients: Potatoes, butter, milk, Kerala pepper.
  • Preparation: After making a creamy mash, add a touch of freshly ground pepper to enhance the flavor of the potatoes.

• Grilled Salmon with Kerala Pepper:

  • Ingredients: Salmon fillet, olive oil, lemon, Kerala pepper.
  • Preparation: Brush the salmon with olive oil and lemon juice, generously sprinkle with Kerala pepper, then grill.

• Spicy Grilled Vegetables:

  • Ingredients: Zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, Kerala pepper, olive oil.
  • Preparation: Season the vegetables with olive oil and Kerala pepper, then grill until tender and slightly caramelized.