Piper nigrum
Country of Origin: India
Malabar pepper is one of the finest varieties of black pepper, indigenous to India's Malabar coast, the southwestern coast of the Indian subcontinent. Today its cultivation has spread to the southeastern areas of India. Malabar pepper comes from the same vine as common black pepper, Piper nigrum. It is because of the region of cultivation that Malabar pepper has such quality, as it grows in perfect climate conditions that combine sun and humidity.
Pepper vines are native to South Asia and Southeast Asia. Pepper was introduced to Europe when it was brought from India' s Malabar coast to Italy and Rome through the Red Sea and the Nile River during the time of the Roman Empire. Pepper was extremely valuable and expensive that it was even used as a currency for trading. It can often been found in references as ''black gold''.
Malabar pepper has a fruity aroma with hints of citrus, cedar and berries. It has a clean bite and a slightly bitter aftertaste. It can be sprinkled freshly ground on top of every dish when served to add a delicate taste to every recipe. It is especially good when added on top of pasta, eggs, grilled pieces of meat and fish, potato salads and salad dressings.
Malabar pepper combines well with greek oregano, greek thyme, rosemary, turmeric and bay leaves.