Pink Peppercorns

Pink Peppercorns are delicate, berry-like fruits with a sweet-spicy flavor and a vibrant pink hue, adding both color and a unique taste to dishes. They are not true peppercorns but are often used as a spice. Pink Peppercorns are available year-round, with peak season in the late fall. They are commonly used in French, Latin American, and fusion cuisines, often found in spice blends, on meats, in sauces, and even in desserts for a peppery kick.

Pink Peppercorns Synonyms

Brazilian pepper
Rose pepper
Baies roses
Poivre rose

Different Forms/Types of Pink Peppercorns

Brined

Sometimes pink peppercorns are preserved in a vinegar or salt brine, which can be used to add a tangy, peppery flavor to dishes.

Ground

Ground pink peppercorns are available for convenience, offering a quick way to add their flavor to recipes without the need for grinding.

Whole dried

Pink peppercorns can be found as whole dried berries, which are ideal for grinding fresh onto dishes or incorporating into spice blends.

How to Choose Pink Peppercorns

When selecting pink peppercorns, look for ones that have a vibrant pink hue and a fresh, peppery aroma. They should be free from moisture and mold. If purchasing brined peppercorns, ensure the liquid is clear and free from any off-putting smells. As pink peppercorns are not true peppercorns, but rather dried berries from the Brazilian pepper tree, they should not be confused with black, white, or green peppercorns.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Pink Peppercorns

Pink peppercorns, while not true peppercorns, offer a unique flavor profile that is fruity and mildly peppery with a delicate, pine-like aroma. They are less pungent than black peppercorns and can be used whole, crushed, or ground to impart their flavor. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to note that pink peppercorns are best added towards the end of cooking to preserve their volatile aromatic compounds. Overheating can cause a loss of their nuanced flavor, so they are often used as a finishing spice. Additionally, due to their delicate nature, they should be lightly crushed using a mortar and pestle rather than a pepper grinder to avoid turning them into a fine powder unless that is the desired consistency for a specific recipe.

Shelf Life of Pink Peppercorns

Whole dried pink peppercorns should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain their flavor and prevent moisture from getting in. Ground pink peppercorns should be used relatively quickly, as they lose their potency faster than whole berries. Brined pink peppercorns should be kept in their original liquid in a sealed container and refrigerated after opening. Generally, pink peppercorns will retain their best quality for about a year if stored properly.

Recommended Brands for Pink Peppercorns

brined: Not specific brands, but often found in gourmet or specialty stores

ground: McCormick Gourmet

whole dried: Frontier Co-op

Cooking Techniques for Pink Peppercorns

Crusting: Pink peppercorns can be used to create a flavorful crust for meats or fish. Press whole or lightly crushed peppercorns onto the surface of the protein before searing or roasting to infuse the dish with their distinctive flavor.

Infusing: Infuse pink peppercorns in cream, oils, or vinegars to subtly impart their flavor into sauces, dressings, or marinades. This technique allows the peppercorns to release their essential oils and gently flavor the liquid without overpowering the dish.

Finishing: Sprinkle whole or crushed pink peppercorns over dishes just before serving to add a pop of color and a burst of flavor. This method is particularly effective in salads, pasta dishes, and even on desserts like chocolate truffles or fruit tarts.

Popular Pink Peppercorns Recipes

Pink Peppercorn Crusted Steak
Strawberry Salad with Pink Peppercorn Vinaigrette
Pink Peppercorn and Lemon Thyme Chicken

Pink Peppercorns Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 5.9 g
fiber: 26 g
sugar: N/A
protein: 7.0 g
calories: 255 kcal
carbohydrates: 63 g

Flavor Combinations

Pink peppercorns pair well with a variety of ingredients, enhancing the flavor of delicate proteins like fish and chicken. They complement the sweetness of fruits, such as strawberries and pears, and can add an intriguing twist to chocolate desserts. Creamy sauces and goat cheese also benefit from the subtle, peppery notes of pink peppercorns. Herbs like tarragon, chives, and lemon thyme are excellent companions, as are citrus flavors, which can highlight the peppercorn's fruity characteristics.

Allergen Information

Pink Peppercorns are related to cashews and may cause allergic reactions in individuals with tree nut allergies. It is important for those with nut allergies to avoid pink peppercorns and be cautious when consuming blends containing this ingredient.