Everything you need to know about pepper

• Their colour reflects the different stages of development (green are unripe, black are half ripe and white are very ripe)
• Peppercorns help digestion. The skin of a peppercorn facilitates the breakdown of fat cells in the body, to help keep us healthy
• Pink peppercorns are not partof the pepper family, but are berries from the Baies Roseplant, native to South America

• A peppercorn’s outer shell helps seal in freshness. Pepper is best served freshly ground; the flavour will begin to change within about 30 minutes of grinding

• In a vinaigrette. Add pink peppercorns for a delicately sweet and spicy flavour, or as a garnish on top of your salad
• In Jacques’ special Five Pepper Blend. The unique Canadian combination is available through Crousset in Orford, Quebec

• The long pepper, native to Indonesia, has a distinctive shape and a delicate flavour. This long-bodied peppercorn pairs well with lamb or vegetable dishes
• Grains of Paradise, originally thought only to grow in Eden, but are actually native to West Africa, and make a delightful substitute for cardamom and black pepper

• Ceramic mortars and pestles, which are non-porous and lighter than their marble counterparts, are the best way to grind peppercorns for a fresh sprinkle added to meals every day

Read more in Recipes and Country Pantry