Pink pepper: properties, features, applications
Pink pepper: properties, features, applications
Anonim

Today there are many seasonings, among which various varieties of pepper are especially popular. This product is in great demand. Among the wide range you can find not only white, black and allspice, but also pink. Of course, this spice appeared on the shelves relatively recently. However, she quickly gained popularity. It is worth noting that the seasoning has nothing to do with pepper. It looks very much like him. However, pink pepper, which has a distinct aroma from other spices, does not have a very pronounced spicy flavor.

pink pepper
pink pepper

Where does it grow?

This seasoning is the fruit of the shinus tree, which grows in distant Brazil. Despite the confusion with the name, pink pepper is widely used in cooking. After all, this spice has a unique taste that combines the sourness of cranberries and a hint of anise.

The shinus tree can be found, of course, not only in Brazil. This plant also grows in the USA. It can also be seen in Australia, Paraguay, Argentina, Puerto Rico and the Hawaiian Islands. However, pink peppers are mainly sourced from Reunion Island. The seasoning is made from the fruits of several varieties of the shinus tree:soft and pistachio. The last plant is small in size. As a rule, the pistachio tree grows no more than 10 meters in height.

pink pepper flavor
pink pepper flavor

What is this spice?

As already mentioned, pink pepper is a mixture of the fruits of several varieties of shinus. In shape, as well as in taste, the berries resemble the usual pepper. This is how the spice got its name. The reddish-pink color of the fruit makes it more like a cranberry than a classic pepper.

When fresh, pink pepper has an appetizing flavor that bears little resemblance to common spices. It doesn't have a pungent taste. On the contrary, it is slightly sweet. Of course, after eating the berries, there is an aftertaste that can only be compared with ginger root. However, this is not an accurate description. In the taste of the seasoning, there are almost imperceptible notes of anise and menthol, as well as a slightly resinous aftertaste. Pink peppercorns are a very unusual spice. And this applies not only to its taste, but also to its smell.

pink peppercorns
pink peppercorns

How to keep the taste?

The smell of pink pepper is simply unique. Seasoning is prepared in a very unusual way. To preserve all the taste and useful qualities of the product, the fruits of the shinus must be dried, which is carried out by deep freezing, s alting or pickling.

However, while the spice reaches the shelves of our country, it is additionally processed. As a result, there is practically nothing from the real taste of this spice.remains. To reveal the unique aroma and taste of the spice, it is worth drying it a little over low heat. This can be done with a regular frying pan. There is no need to add oil.

There is another way that allows you to reveal the taste of pink pepper. The spice can be ground to a powder. In this form, seasoning must be added to the dish immediately.

pink pepper scent
pink pepper scent

Pink Pepper Application

Shinus fruits are commonly used in cooking. In many countries, this seasoning is added to various sweets, confectionery and drinks. In addition, pink pepper is often added to sauces, salads, seafood, poultry, meat and fish dishes. Some popular restaurants serve asparagus seasoned with this particular spice.

Pink pepper is very often added to various mixtures. In this composition, the spice can improve the taste of almost any dish. Recently, a condiment such as "Four Peppers" has become popular, which is a mixture of white, green black and pink pepper. The last component in this composition practically loses its aroma. Indeed, when ground, pink pepper is not able to retain its taste for a long time.

Do not forget that this seasoning, even fresh, cannot be stored for more than 6 months. You should also be aware that pink pepper is toxic in large quantities.

Useful qualities of spices

Pink pepper not only allows you to make any dish fragrant and spicy, but also has useful properties. First of all, the spice has a positive effect on the digestive system. Very often, pink peppercorns are used to treat diarrhea. In addition, seasoning can improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Often, pink pepper is used for diseases such as rheumatism, gout and various types of arthritis.

pink pepper application
pink pepper application

Shinus fruits are also used in the manufacture of essential oils. For medical and cosmetic purposes, pink pepper is used with extreme caution, as there is a risk of skin irritation. In some cases, an allergic reaction may occur.

Those who suffer from stomach ulcers or gastritis should avoid eating dishes with pink pepper. This spice can greatly irritate the mucous membrane. This can cause an aggravation of the disease.

How to choose the right seasoning?

If you still decide to buy an exotic seasoning with an extraordinary taste, then you should carefully consider the berries. High quality shinus fruits should have a shiny surface and a bright shade. In this case, the berries should not only be round, but also large enough. You should not buy seasoning if there are a lot of black or gray grains in the package. This indicates the poor quality of the product. Naturally, such a seasoning is unlikely to bring benefits.

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