Black pepper is an essential ingredient in cuisines worldwide. It is made from dried peppercorns, the unripe berries of the Piper nigrum plant.
This guide provides an overview of what ground black pepper is, how it is used, stored, its substitutes, and answers the question does black pepper expire.
What is Black Pepper?
Black pepper is derived from dried, unripe peppercorns, which are harvested and sun-dried to develop their signature dark color.
Its sharp taste comes from a compound called piperine, which gives black pepper its heat and aromatic properties. It is available as whole peppercorns or ground into a fine or coarse powder.
How Is It Used?
Black pepper is an all-purpose seasoning and is used in a variety of ways. You can use it on steaks, chicken, or pork chops to enhance their natural flavors.
It can also be added to broths, chowders, and hearty soups. Black pepper also complements roasted vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts.
When making egg dishes like scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas, you can add a pinch of black pepper.
You can also add black pepper to salads. Some people also sprinkle black pepper on popcorn, nuts, or avocado toast for a savory twist.
Types of Black Pepper
There are different types of black pepper. For example, those derived from Tellicherry Peppercorns and Malabar Peppercorns. The Tellicherry Peppercorns are larger and more aromatic while Malabar Peppercorns have a slightly lighter flavor.
There are also Organic Black Pepper, which are free from additives and pesticides.
Does Black Pepper Have Any Health Benefits?
Yes, black pepper has many potential health benefits, including:
Cardiovascular health
Black pepper may help protect against cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) like hypertension, atherosclerosis, CAD, and HF.1
Neuroprotection
Black pepper’s bioactive compounds, like piperine, may help prevent age-related neurodegenerative diseases (ANDs).2
Metabolic health
Black pepper may help improve blood lipid profiles and reduce the risk of metabolic complications.3
Anti-inflammatory
Black pepper has anti-inflammatory properties that may help with a range of conditions.4
Antioxidant
Black pepper’s antioxidant properties may help protect against cognitive decline and hippocampal nerve damage.5
Stress response
Black pepper’s aroma may help alleviate the physiological acute stress response.6
Nutrient absorption
Black pepper may help boost nutrient absorption.7
Does Black Pepper Have Capsaicin?
No, black pepper does not contain capsaicin.
Capsaicin is the compound responsible for the spiciness in chili peppers (from the genus Capsicum), such as jalapeños, habaneros, and cayenne peppers.
Instead, the spiciness of black pepper comes from a different compound called piperine.
Piperine provides a sharp flavor but is chemically distinct from capsaicin.
Both compounds activate the same heat-sensing receptors in your mouth, which is why they can produce a similar burning sensation, though piperine is generally less intense.
Does Black Pepper Have Sodium?
Yes, black pepper contains a very small amount of sodium, but it is negligible.
For example, 1 teaspoon (approximately 2.3 grams) of ground black pepper contains about 1 milligram of sodium, which is an insignificant amount compared to the daily recommended sodium intake (2,300 milligrams for most adults).
Black pepper is not considered a significant source of sodium. It is commonly used to enhance flavor without adding substantial sodium.
Does Black Pepper Have Calories?
Yes, black pepper has calories, but the amount is very small. For example, 1 teaspoon (about 2.3 grams) of ground black pepper contains approximately 6 calories. Also, 1 tablespoon (about 6.9 grams) contains around 18 calories.
The calorie content primarily comes from its carbohydrate content, which includes dietary fiber. However, the amount of calories in typical seasoning usage is negligible, so black pepper is considered a low-calorie spice.
How Do I Store This Spice?
To preserve its flavor and potency, store black pepper in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
You should keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Does Black Pepper Expire?
No, black pepper doesn’t spoil but can lose its flavor over time.
Whole peppercorns can last 2–3 years, while ground pepper is best used within 6–12 months.
One way you can tell if it has lost its flavor is by the aroma. A weaker aroma and reduced spiciness indicate that the pepper has aged.
You should also look for signs of discoloration. You may also rub a small amount on your hand and taste it to see if it is still potent enough to be effective in your cooking.
Substitutes for This Spice
If you’re out of black pepper, you can use white pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder or paprika as substitutes.
White Pepper is milder than black pepper while Cayenne Pepper adds heat.
Chili Powder provides a smoky and spicy alternative while Paprika is a mild spice that adds a touch of sweetness.
Do you use black pepper in your everyday cooking? What are your favorite dishes that wouldn’t be the same without black pepper? Share with us and learn more about other spices and seasoning from our spices database.
References:
- Combination of Taurine and Black Pepper Extract as a Treatment for Cardiovascular and Coronary Artery Diseases ↩︎
- Neuroprotective Effects of Black Pepper and Its Bioactive Compounds in Age-Related Neurological Disorders ↩︎
- Bioactive Properties, Bioavailability Profiles, and Clinical Evidence of the Potential Benefits of Black Pepper (Piper nigrum) and Red Pepper (Capsicum annum) against Diverse Metabolic Complications ↩︎
- Combination of Taurine and Black Pepper Extract as a Treatment for Cardiovascular and Coronary Artery Diseases ↩︎
- Black Pepper (Piper nigrum) Alleviates Oxidative Stress, Exerts Potential Anti-Glycation and Anti-AChE Activity: A Multitargeting Neuroprotective Agent against Neurodegenerative Diseases ↩︎
- Alleviation of acute stress response by black pepper aroma administration ↩︎
- Black pepper and health claims: a comprehensive treatise ↩︎
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