The perfect vegan mushroom peppercorn sauce recipe has now arrived with 7 interesting facts and health benefits about the ‘King of Spices’!
Words by: Julianna Maxwell
7 Interesting Facts about Peppercorns
In case you needed a reason to whip up this delicious vegan mushroom peppercorn sauce recipe, we’ve put together a list of 7 interesting facts and benefits for your reading pleasure! Native to the tropical evergreen rain forests of Southern India, peppercorn has been a popular spice since ancient times. Where it spread to rest of the world through Indian and Arab traders, peppercorn has become one of the top traded spices worldwide. Even though cracked black peppercorn may have been a staple in everyone’s kitchen for years, you may not have known these 7 interesting facts. Read on to learn more about peppercorn, your favorite spice!
1. It’s actually a berry!
Coming from the berry of the pepper plant (Piperaceae), which grows perennially (I.e. for a long time), pepper plants require a trellis or surface to cling to as it has a maximum height of 12 feet tall! Like most spices, it takes 3-4 years before the plant begins to produce small round berries grown in bunches.
2. It comes in a variety of colours
Though typically harvested in black, peppercorns also come in white, red, and green! The differences in these results from harvesting at different stages of growth. Contrary to popular belief, they all come from the same peppercorn! White peppercorns are made from the inner portion of the mature red peppercorns, with green peppercorns being the immature (early-stage) fruits, which if left a little longer can be be harvested and dried to produce black peppercorns, or left till maturity to produce dark red peppercorns! The flavour of peppercorns develop and strengthen as the berries mature, so if you prefer a softer spice opt for green peppercorns!
3. They are full of vitamins and minerals!
Black peppercorns contain minerals like potassium, calcium, zinc, manganese, iron, and magnesium. Potassium is important in controlling heart rate and blood pressure, whilst Iron is essential for blood cell production. Peppercorns are also an excellent source of many vital B-complex groups of vitamins such as pyridoxine, riboflavin, thiamin and niacin, helping our bodies stay energised and promoting healthy hair and skin! See here and here for more nutritional info.
4. It’s good for your teeth too!
Among other medical uses, historically peppercorn has been used as an antiseptic remedy for tooth-decay and gum swellings. Though you probably won’t find it in the office on your next visit to the dentist!
5. Not just for spicy foods
Typically used for savory dishes, peppercorn can also be used to bring out aromatic and fruity flavors when added in very small quantities. Try adding a small pinch the next time you are baking fruitcakes, sweet breads or pies for a spicy note!
6. It can aide in weight loss!
According to Livestrong, studies have also shown that piperine (a chemical in black pepper) can help to suppress genes needed for new fat cell growth, with its thermogenic properties helping to increase metabolism! While research is still ongoing in many cases, it won’t hurt to add a dash of pepper to your plate in the meantime!
7. It grows all over the world
Though it originates from India, Vietnam is the world’s biggest producer of pepper, producing more than 34% of the world’s pepper products. However peppercorn plants tend thrive in any sunny, wet environment, including Vanuatu, Fiji and Brazil!
Servings | Prep Time |
2 cups | 3 mins |
Cook Time |
5-10 mins |
|
|
|
The perfect creamy, dreamy vegan mushroom peppercorn sauce recipe! Buy certified organic peppercorns at our online store for maximum flavour- www.lovingislands.com/our-products
|
- 1/2 cup Coconut cream
- 1 cup Button mushrooms (thinly sliced)
- 1 small Brown onion (diced)
- 2-3 cloves garlic (finely diced or minced)
- 1/2 tbs Coconut oil (melted)
- 2 tsp Organic cracked black pepper (shop at our online store)
- 1 tsp Apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Sea salt (optional, to taste)
- Heat coconut oil in a small pot over medium heat adding onion, garlic and organic cracked black pepper once heated. Cook till onion begins to soften.
- Add coconut cream, mushrooms and apple cider vinegar and let simmer gently. Stir regularly till the mushrooms have soften and the sauce thickens. Add salt to taste if desired.
Leave a Reply
Your email is safe with us.