Pink pepper, also called red, Compared to black, green or lemon, it appears in our kitchens much less frequently. It’s a pity, because it can diversify the taste of many dishes, and it also contains a lot of substances that are valuable to the body. Interestingly, the pink grains are not actually a variety of the black pepper we know so well.
Dried, small pink-red grains actually resemble pepper at first glance. They also have a spicy, slightly peppery flavor. However, these fruits are not related to the well-known black pepper. They come from trees of the Schinus genus, most often the Brazilian pepper tree (Schinus terebinthifolius) or the Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle). They belong to the sumac family and come from South America. They grow in humid and hot climates and can also be found in the southern United States, Mexico and Australia. Interestingly, this plant has not only culinary uses, it is also planted for ornamental purposes.
Black and pink dried pepper differ not only in color and taste. Pink pepper fruits are less hard than black ones, they are also hollow and easy to grind.
Pink pepper works well in both savory and sweet dishes. These berries have a spicy, yet slightly sweet, fruity and floral aroma. Some people also detect citrus notes in it. In Poland, it is easiest to buy pink pepper, of course, it will be an interesting addition for baked, stewed and grilled meat and fish. Pink pepper will perfectly highlight the taste vegetable stews. Lovers of culinary experiments also add red pepper for desserts, especially those with chocolate.
It is worth remembering that pink pepper should be added to dishes at the very end of cooking. It should be borne in mind that it is sensitive to high temperature, so the essential oils that give it the aroma may quickly evaporate. To extract the most flavor from pink pepper, it is worth grinding or crushing it just before using it.
What properties does pink pepper have? Demonstrates antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal propertiesthanks to which it helps fight infections. It improves immunity and helps fight colds and flu. In natural medicine it is used as an analgesic and antiseptic. They are present in it antioxidantswhich support the neutralization of free radicals and also have anti-inflammatory properties. It has a beneficial effect on the intestines, improves fat digestion and supports metabolism.
Pink pepper can support the circulatory systemhelps regulate blood pressure and supports the proper functioning of the heart. It also has positive effect on the nervous systemimproves well-being and helps reduce tension. He is also credited with soothing unpleasant symptoms associated with menstruation.
Although pink pepper has many health-promoting properties, you should not overdo it. In larger doses it may be toxic. Too much consumption may cause digestive problems such as diarrhea. People suffering from food allergies should also be careful with it. Pink pepper is also not recommended for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and small children.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl, elektoria.pl, piccantino.pl
