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Pepper is the most popular spice in the world and was so prized at one point in history that it was actually used as currency.
In fact, European explorers were primarily seeking pepper when they found their way to the new world. Both white and black peppers come from the same plant, and both are useful seasonings. In order to use these spices effectively, it is important to know how they differ in terms of appearance and flavor. Let’s break down the similarities and differences.
What is Black pepper?
Black pepper is made from the unripe, green drupes of the pepper plant. After harvesting, the drupes are briefly cooked in hot water to clean them and prepare them for drying. This heat treatment breaks down the cell walls, accelerating the enzymatic browning process during drying. The drupes are then sun-dried or machine-dried for several days, during which the outer skin shrinks and darkens, forming a thin, wrinkled black layer. Once fully dried, these drupes are known as black peppercorns.
In some regions, the berries are hand-separated from the stems and sun-dried without boiling. Black pepper and its derivatives, such as pepper spirit and pepper oil, are used in a variety of medicinal and cosmetic applications. Pepper oil, for instance, is commonly employed in Ayurvedic massage oils and in beauty and herbal treatments.
Pepper is the most popular spice in the world and was so prized at one point in history that it was actually used as currency.
What is White pepper?
White pepper is made from the seed of fully ripe pepper plant fruit, with the outer dark skin (flesh) removed. This is typically done through a process called retting, where ripe red pepper berries are soaked in water for about a week. The soaking softens and decomposes the outer flesh, which is then removed by rubbing, leaving the seed exposed to dry. In some cases, the outer layer is removed using other mechanical, chemical, or biological methods.
Ground white pepper is a staple in Chinese, Thai, and Portuguese cuisines, and is occasionally used in other dishes like salads, light-colored sauces, and mashed potatoes, where black pepper would be visually intrusive. However, white pepper has a different flavor profile, as it lacks certain compounds found in the outer layer of the peppercorn.
What is the difference between White Pepper and Black Pepper?
- Black pepper is hotter:By the time the whole black pepper dries, it has a very strong flavour. Black pepper is rich and bolder. It also has a lot of heat, along with a strong aroma. If you have a milder palette, white pepper is best for you. The flavor is light, earthy and simple. It is useful for spicing up dishes that just need a pinch of flavour. White pepper is best if you are not a fan of heat.
- Black pepper lasts longer:When kept in an air tight container, whole black peppercorn can last for a year. The pre-ground version, however, loses its best flavor within a few months. This is the reason you can find bottles of whole pepper with built-in grinders. Since white pepper is more “exposed” than black, it loses its flavor much faster. It will turn stale and you might not know it. So if you decide to cook with white pepper, remember it should be fresh.
- White pepper for lighter, earthy dishes:Apart from flavour, the main difference between black pepper and white pepper is the appearance. People often use black pepper in dishes that are already colourful. If the dish already has a lot of elements in it, black pepper will just blend right in.
Health benefits
Benefit of White Pepper
White pepper works best for those suffering from loss of appetite as it enhances appetite and promotes healthy gout. The spice helps to get rid of secretions from airways. It has anti-inflammatory effect and also freshens breath. White pepper enhances the immune system and tones the overall body. It purifies the body from harmful toxins and promotes circulation. The regular intake of white pepper protects from various cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Monisha goes on to say, ” White pepper helps in preventing cancer by preventing formation of free radicals. It also aids in weight loss due to the presence of capsaicin, that burns fat in the body.”
Benefit of Black Pepper
Apart from enhancing the flavour of the dish, the king of spices can offer a number of health benefits. Regular intake of black pepper in the diet aids in weight loss, improves digestion, boosts metabolism, treat skin problems, asthma, treats sinus and nasal congestion. It also reduces the risk of cancer, and heart and liver ailments. The nutritionist further adds, ” black pepper aids digestion by stimulating enzymes and juices. It is also a remedy that cures cold and cough by stimulating circulation and mucous flow.”
