Black Pepper (Piper nigrum) – the king of spices – is, alongside salt, one of the most widely used single spices worldwide. Its significance dates back to ancient times when it was even used as currency in ancient Rome. In 2020, approximately 490,000 tons of pepper were produced. Some Romans even paid their taxes with this precious spice. Today, there is a wide variety of pepper types with different aromas and origins.
Black pepper originates from South India and has been traded for over 2,000 years. The ancient Romans and Greeks considered it a valuable commodity. It was a crucial part of the medieval Silk Road and played a central role in the global spice trade.
Today, black pepper is primarily cultivated in the following countries:
All pepper varieties come from the same plant (Piper nigrum) but differ in harvest timing and processing:
Black pepper cultivation requires a tropical climate with high humidity. The plants grow as climbing vines and take up to three years to bear fruit. After harvest, the green peppercorns are fermented and sun-dried, developing their characteristic dark color and bold aroma.
More information about pepper:
Experience the intense aroma and premium quality of our black pepper. Elevate your dishes with its exquisite taste. Order now!
Freshly ground black pepper has a more intense aroma and a complex flavor profile compared to pre-ground pepper. Grinding releases essential oils that provide its characteristic spiciness and depth. In contrast, pre-ground pepper loses its potency over time as its volatile compounds evaporate more quickly.
Black pepper complements a wide range of spices, enhancing their flavors. It pairs particularly well with:
These three varieties originate from different regions and have distinct flavor profiles:
In addition to well-known types, there are some rare and highly aromatic pepper varieties:
Wild pepper grows naturally in tropical forests and develops a more complex aroma. Cultivated pepper is grown on plantations, ensuring a more consistent quality. Both types have their advantages – wild pepper offers a more intense taste, while cultivated pepper guarantees uniform quality.
Discover regularly updated recipes and useful application tips for our products on our Instagram account Orlandosidee Gewürze - Spezie - Spices (@orlandosidee) • Instagram Photos and Videos.
Order comfortably from home. Our online shop offers diverse payment options and fast shipping throughout Europe.
Inh. Carola Berardi
Alt-Tempelhof 23-25
12103 Berlin
Tel: +49 30 720 11 318
Fax: +49 30 7928189
we speak english: 8 a.m -5 p.m
from Monday - Friday