Pink Pepper from Madagascar

Pink peppers are dried berries with a papery pink skin that contains seeds that deliver a delicate, lingering heat with a touch of sweetness.  It has a similar flavour to black peppercorns, but is milder, slightly sweet and more fruity.  Pink pepper is often used to add a delicate and fragrant hint of spice, and an elegant colourful appearance to many savoury and sweet recipes. Pink pepper goes especially well with fruit sauces, and can accompany vinaigrette dressings, and even be used with desserts.

Warning: A little known fact is pink peppers aren't actually peppercorns. They are actually dried berries but have a similar shape and flavour profile to peppercorns. So people who are allergic to tree nuts and cashews should proceed with caution or avoid consuming pink peppers altogether.

(split)

DESCRIPTION  

Pink peppers are dried berries of the plant Schinus molle but are similar to peppercorns in both shape and flavour. 

HEALTH & NUTRITION  

Pink peppers are packed with anthocyanins which possess anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties (source: “Analysis of the Chemical, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Pink Pepper (Schinus molle L.).”, Kim, Min Jeong et al., Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 10,7 1062. 30 Jun. 2021, doi:10.3390/antiox10071062). This is why it has been traditionally  used as a natural remedy for colds, coughs and asthma.is considered as a natural remedy for its antiseptic, disinfectant and diuretic properties. They are also packed with anthocyanins which possess antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, anthocyanins. In addition to all of the that, pink peppercorns are chewed as a simple remedy for colds, coughs and asthma.

COOKING TIPS  

When using pink pepper you should not use a pepper mill, just crush them with a knife or a spice grinder as they break quite easily. When using high heat or a long cooking time, it's best to add the pepper towards the end to preserve its full flavour. 

Warning: If you are allergic to tree nuts, pink peppercorns are related to cashews and can cause anaphylactic reaction. Pink peppercorns can also be toxic when used in large quantities.

CUISINES & DISHES

Popular Dishes:

• Sweets: Pink Peppercorn Panna Cotta with Macerated Cherries, Chocolate Pots De Creme with Pink Peppercorns and Himalayan Sea Salt, Pink Peppercorn Sugar & Spice Cookies.
  

STORAGE

Store whole peppercorns in a sealed container in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve flavour.