Different varieties of Indian Black Pepper
For generations, black pepper, has been a valued ingredient in kitchens around the world. Its distinct flavour profile and aromatic characteristics have made it an indispensable ingredient in many culinary creations, ranging from classic recipes to inventive gourmet treats. While black pepper is well-known and frequently used, did you know that it comes in a plethora of variants, each with their own particular characteristics?
In this detailed blog, we have covered the wonderful world of black pepper and its many forms, gaining insight into different types, grades, and unique characteristics of pepper.
Black pepper: Black pepper, known as the "King of Spices," is derived from the dried berries of the pepper plant (Piper nigrum). It has a robust, spicy flavour. The Malabar Coast in Kerala is famous for producing high-quality black pepper. Tellicherry pepper is a special type of malabar pepper distinguished by big, aromatic peppercorns with a Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating of 30,000-50,000.
Pink pepper - Pink pepper, also known as Brazilian pepper or rose pepper, is not a real pepper family member. It is derived from the tree species Schinus and has a sweet, fruity flavour with a tinge of spiciness. Pink pepper is found largely in the Western Ghats area of India, notably in Karnataka and Kerala. It is not as well recognised or used as black pepper, but its distinct flavour profile is gaining appeal among chefs. Pink pepper does not have a high SHU value since it is gentler than genuine peppers.
White pepper -White pepper is made from fully grown pepper berries that have had their outer black husk removed. When compared to black pepper, it has a milder flavour with earthy and somewhat fermented undertones. White pepper is often used in meals when black pepper's characteristic black flecks are unwanted. Wayanad, in Kerala, India, is famous for producing high-quality white pepper. White pepper has a comparable SHU to black pepper.
Green pepper - Green pepper is made from unripe pepper berries that have been plucked and dried before turning black. When compared to black pepper, it has a fresher, gentler flavour with a faint tanginess. Green pepper is found mostly in the Indian states of Karnataka and Kerala. It is frequently used to give a vibrant, zesty touch to pickles, sauces, and salads. It has quite low heat levels.
Different grades of Indian Black Pepper
If you have ever faced the overwhelming choices between varieties and grades while navigating the huge world of black pepper, relaaax. We got you covered. Below is a detailed description of multiple Popular Indian grades with their sub grades. Never discuss your black pepper like an amateur again.
Black pepper Grades:
Tellicherry Garbled grades: One of the highest-quality Black Pepper in the World, has a biting heat but a distinctively fresh and pungent aroma.
TGSEB (Tellicherry Garbled Special Extra Bold)
Size (mm) 4.75
TGEB (Tellicherry Garbled Extra Bold)
Size (mm) 4.25
TG (Tellicherry Garbled)
Size (mm) 4.00
Malabar Black Pepper grades: The berries have a slightly greenish hue. This is also a high-quality pepper with a pungent aroma and robust flavour.
MG-1 – Malabar Garbled 1
MG-2 – Malabar Garbled 2
MUG-1 – Malabar Ungarbled 1
Light Berries 2%
MUG-2 – Malabar Ungarbled 2
Light Berries 10%
MUG-3L – Malabar Ungarbled 3L
Light Berries 15%
MUG-4L – Malabar Ungarbled 4L
Light Berries 20%
Light Berries Black Pepper Grades:
GL-Special – Garbled Light Special
GL-1 – Garbled Light 1
Light Berries 5%
GL-2 – Garbled Light 2
Light Berries 10%
GL-3 – Garbled Light 3
Light Berries 15%
UGL-Special – Ungarbled Light Special
UGL-1 – Ungarbled Light 1
Light Berries 5%
UGL-2L – Ungarbled Light 2L
Light Berries 10%
Conclusion: From the robustness of Malabar Black Pepper to the delicate nuances of pink, white, and green pepper, each variety offers a unique culinary experience. Based upon the areas grown each variant can have it's unique flavours and pungency. The size of the peppercorn is usually a key metric in deciding the 'premiumness' of the black pepper, the bolder the better. However for grinding purposes, usually smaller variants are used.
We have quite a variety of offerings for black pepper, and we promise we answer the amateur inquires too:)
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