Spice | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Cracked Black Pepper

Piper nigrum Allergen-Free
cracked black pepper

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Piperaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Pepper plant berries

The Forktionary Angle

"The Essential Pungency"

Definition

Coarsely ground dried berries of the black pepper plant, offering a pungent, sharp flavor with a mild heat.

Sensory Profile

TastePungent, Spicy
TextureGritty, Crunchy
AromaSharp, Woody
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Usage

Consistently among the top 5 most consumed spices worldwide.

Science Fact

Contains piperine, the alkaloid responsible for its distinctive heat.

Storage Tip

Store whole peppercorns in an airtight container for up to 3 years.

Nutrition Facts

Per 2.3 g (1 tsp)
Calories251 kcal
Total Fat3.3 g
Saturated Fat1.4 g
Trans Fat0.0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein10.9 g
Total Carbohydrate64.8 g
Dietary Fiber26.5 g
Total Sugars0.0 g
Calcium437 mg
Iron9.7 mg
Potassium1260 mg

Chef’s Secret

Toasting whole peppercorns lightly before cracking enhances their aromatic compounds, providing a deeper flavor.

Substitutions

Best Match

White Pepper

1:1

Similar heat profile, less floral aroma, good for light sauces.

Green Peppercorns

1:1 (fresh/brined)

Milder, fresher pepper flavor, less pungent.

Pink Peppercorns

1:1

Fruitier, milder, slightly sweet, more fragile.

Sichuan Peppercorns

1:0.5

Adds a unique tingling sensation and citrusy aroma, distinct from black pepper.

Buying Guide

Opt for freshly cracked pepper from whole peppercorns for the best flavor and aroma.

Flavor Pairings

Beef Chicken Pork Fish Vegetables Soups Salads

Recipes Using Cracked Black Pepper

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This vibrant and refreshing Avocado Strawberry Salad is the perfect light lunch or side dish! Made with ripe avocados, juicy strawberries, peppery arugula, and a tangy raspberry vinaigrette, this easy recipe comes together in minutes. A delightful twist on a classic salad – perfect for summer!

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Balsamic Glazed Cracked Pepper Salmon

Impress your taste buds with this elegant and easy Balsamic Glazed Cracked Pepper Salmon recipe! Ready in under 20 minutes, this dish features juicy, perfectly cooked salmon fillets with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. A clean eating favorite since 2008, updated for today's kitchens.

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Balsamic Glazed Cracked Pepper Salmon Clean Eating

Experience the delightful flavors of fall with this quick and healthy Balsamic Glazed Cracked Pepper Salmon recipe! Perfectly pan-seared salmon fillets are coated in a luscious balsamic glaze, creating a dish that's both elegant and easy to make. Serve this delicious clean-eating recipe with brown rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. This updated recipe features a refined balsamic glaze based on popular user feedback.

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