Basics

This is another spice I could write a book on. Just to give you an idea, Half of Madagascar was burned down as a result of a war over the peppercorn spice trade. Pepper has even been used as currency, traded by equal weight for gold! Enough History... The Colors of Peppercorns, what's the difference? Pink, White, and Green, Peppercorns are all the same plant, just the berries are harvested at different stages of ripeness. Black Peppercorns are really green when harvested, but turn black when dried. Kind of a cousin of Black Pepper, Long Black Pepper is not a berry at all but comes from a related plant, and looks like a tiny black cylindrical pine cone. I have to say, Peppercorns are such a big part of our lives, that Salt and Pepper Shakers are in every household in the Modern World. Truly human beings favorite spice. In the past, enough to go to war over. On a positive note, Peppercorns are one thing that binds us all as human beings. Just a thought...

Producers

With all that history, pepper you may think comes from all over the world. In fact, most of the pepper used today comes from India and Malaysia. Over here in the west, Brazil supplies the United States with our favorite spice.

Aromatics and Flavors

Pepper is probably the most agreeable pungent spice on the planet. The different colors have slightly different tastes and aromas. Green Peppercorns are a bit more sweet, White is hot and spicy, Red is not very hot but highly aromatic. Black is pungent and spicy.

Culinary Uses

Use on everything savory! I have made Honey Peppercorn Sauces, so it can be used in some Sweet to Savory Dishes as Well. One Note, the Flavor and Aroma of all Peppercorns will dissipate after grinding. It is best to grind it fresh with a peppermill for each use.