Black pepper is one of the most extensively used spices across the world. The addition of this simple spice can instantly amp up the taste and flavour of any delicacy.
But are you sure the Black Pepper you are using is not papaya seeds or dried berries disguised as black peppercorns.
Well, here is all you need to know about Black Pepper and simple ways to check it at home as per FSSAI suggestions. Read on to find out…
All about black pepper
Black Pepper is scientifically known as Piper Nigrum, which is basically a flowering vine that hails from the Piperaceae family. This flavpurful spice is cultivated for its fruit, which is sun dried and used as a spice and seasoning. Apart from that, this spice is also used in traditional treatments and remedies for its potent medicinal properties.
Why black pepper?
Black Pepper is loaded with the goodness of nature and is rich in several essential nutrients such as manganese, vitamin K, iron, and dietary fiber. Apart from that, this little spice is a powerhouse of bioactive compounds like Piperine, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally, Black Pepper has been used as an essential ingredient in Ayurvedic and Unani medicines to name a few. Moreover, the addition of this simple spice can boost digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and may also help in reducing fat deposition in the body and improve metabolism as well as immunity, which makes it great for overall health.
How to identify the real black pepper?
Identifying real Black Pepper involves examining its appearance, aroma, taste, and source. Here are some key points to keep in mind while buying Black Pepper from the market.
1. Appearance
Look for small, uniformly sized peppercorns with a wrinkled surface. They should have a dark brown to black color.
2. Aroma
Real Black Pepper has a strong, pungent aroma. It should smell spicy and peppery.
3. Taste
Authentic Black Pepper delivers a sharp, spicy flavor with a hint of heat. It may have subtle earthy or floral notes. Check for certifications and labels.
Simple test to check black pepper at home
As per studies, the toxicity of food adulterants may lead to heart failure, liver disorders, kidney disorders etc. Thus, it is important to use unadulterated ingredients for cooking or home remedies. According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) here are some simple suggestions to identify real Black Pepper, read on to find out…
- Take a small quantity of Black Pepper and place it on a table.
- Press the berries with your finger.
- The unadulterated berries will not break away easily.
- The adulterated berries break away easily showing they are light blackberries mixed in normal Black Pepper.
