When you think pepper, you probably think about the ground black specks that fill the shaker on your kitchen table. But did you know pepper doesn't just come in black? Confusing, right?
White pepper actually comes from the same plant as black pepper, but the difference between them comes down to how they're picked and processed. Learn the difference between white and black pepper. Plus, get tips on how to cook your favorite recipes using white pepper.
What Is White Pepper?
White pepper, like black pepper, is made from the berries of the pepper plant, also known as the Piper nigrum. Unlike black pepper, however, white pepper comes from berries that are picked at full ripeness. These berries are then soaked in water to ferment. Finally, the outer layer is removed leaving only the inner seed.
Because the skin is removed, some of the flavor is taken, including the piperine. As a result, white pepper tends to be more mild than black pepper.
While black pepper is far more common in American kitchens, using white pepper in light-colored dishes for visual appeal is a tradition that originated in French cooking. It's also common in Chinese, Vietnamese, and Swedish cooking as well.
White Pepper vs. Black Pepper
The difference between white and black pepper comes down to how they're picked and processed. We've already established that white peppercorns are berries that have been picked at a peak ripeness, soaked in water, and then had the outer layer removed.
Black peppercorns on the other hand are unripe berries from the pepper plant that are then dried, causing the skin to blacken. While black pepper gives off more of a spicy heat (due to the piperine), white pepper's flavor is described as more earthy and musty.
Health Benefits of White Pepper
Like black pepper, white pepper has been found to promote gut health and speed up digestion. White pepper also has very few calories, and can add significant flavor to a dish, lessening the need for salt.
While white pepper contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals (like vitamin C, calcium, iron, and manganese) you probably won't be consuming enough of it to see any measurable benefits.
How to Use White Pepper
There are a number of reasons you might choose to use white pepper over black pepper. If you want to get the flavor without the heat or color of black pepper, you'll want to use white pepper.
For example, you might choose to use white pepper in creamy soups or chowders in order to hide the appearance of pepper specks. Because of the widespread popularity of white pepper in Asian cuisine (pepper originates from India, but Vietnam is the top pepper producer today), many will associate its flavor with that of Chinese soups, marinades, and even stir fries.
If you're looking to substitute white pepper for black or vice versa, keep in mind how this might affect the flavor of your dish. White pepper is said to have a more complex flavor profile because it has been able to ripen longer, and it has been fermented.
How to Store White Pepper
Unfortunately, white pepper has a shorter shelf-life than its black counterpart. However, peppercorns will store longer than ground pepper. You'll want to keep it stored in an airtight container away from any light. Whole white peppercorns can last about three years, but ground white pepper will lose its potency after just three months.
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FAQs
White pepper is hotter and spicier - it's sharp, punchy and pure. Black pepper is more robust, richer and complex, with more of an earthy richness about it. Aesthetically, they are also different - cracked black pepper is more commonly used as a garnish and contrasts the likes of light-coloured soups and salads.
Why use white pepper instead of black pepper? ›
Black pepper has a sharp, pungent flavor that is slightly fruity and slightly hot. The flavor comes from compounds called piperine and volatile oils. White pepper has a milder, smoother flavor than black pepper, with a slightly earthy and slightly hot taste.
Why do chefs prefer white pepper? ›
WHAT IS WHITE PEPPER USED FOR? White pepper is fantastic for a variety of dishes, especially white sauces and light-colored recipes that would benefit from subtle heat without the presence of black specks. This spice is a great flavor enhancer, delivering a deep complexity with earthy attributes.
What is the best pepper for cooking? ›
Tellicherry peppercorns are the most flavourful peppercorn variety. They come from Tellicherry, a city in India. They are widely considered to be some of the best peppercorns in the world, and they are much bigger than standard peppercorn varieties.
Why do Chinese use white pepper? ›
White pepper is used widely in different Asian cuisines, notably in Chinese and Vietnamese food. It's traditionally used to flavor hot and sour soup and in preparations for shrimp.
Is white pepper good or bad for you? ›
Health benefits of white pepper:
It has anti-inflammatory effect and also freshens breath. It enhances the immune system and tones the overall body. It purifies the body from harmful toxins and promotes circulation. The regular intake of white pepper protects from various cardiovascular diseases and cancers.
What is white pepper best for? ›
White pepper makes an excellent addition to savory, creamy-based dishes as well as starches such as mashed potatoes and rice porridge. “It pairs well with nutmeg and ginger in savory dishes, along the lines of a French four-spice blend,” Frisch says.
Is white pepper good on chicken? ›
Perfect as a side or snack, these Crispy White Pepper Chicken Bites are super crunchy and satisfying yet easy to create. Use McCormick® Singles White Pepper Ground in your marinade and top it off as a seasoning to give your chicken bites an extra kick of flavor!
Why is it called white pepper? ›
White pepper comes from berries that are picked at full ripeness. The berries are soaked in water to ferment, and then the outer layer is removed, leaving only the inner, light-colored seed. This is why the texture of white peppercorns is smooth compared to that of black peppercorns.
Does Chinese cooking use black pepper? ›
Black pepper chicken is a Chinese American dish that combines a comforting Chinese takeout-style brown sauce with a good amount of black pepper. While you mostly see Chinese cooks using white pepper, this dish highlights the floral aroma and heat of black pepper!
Stonemill Ground White Pepper 100g | ALDI.
What is the tastiest pepper in the world? ›
In talking with many pepper enthusiasts, we've found the Habanero to be universally considered to be one of the best tasting peppers. It's flesh holds up to and absorbs smoking well.
What is the most consumed spice in the world? ›
The wrinkled little peppercorn has played a big role in the history of food. It is the world's most important spice, due to its near-worldwide popularity and the effect meeting its demand had on global trade and exploration.
Which pepper is the healthiest? ›
Red peppers pack the most nutrition, because they've been on the vine longest. Bell peppers come in a range of colors, including red (the sweetest), orange, yellow, and green. Green peppers are harvested earlier before they have a chance to turn yellow, orange, and then red.
Can you be allergic to black pepper but not white pepper? ›
Having an allergy to one food, like black pepper, doesn't automatically mean you'll have an allergy to another one. However, it can put you at a higher risk of having a similar allergy. For instance, being allergic to black pepper may also mean you're allergic to white or green pepper.
Why use peppercorns instead of ground pepper? ›
And let's not forget that whole black peppercorns have a fresher taste and aroma than pre-ground pepper. So you're getting a better quality spice when you use them in your cooking.
Is white pepper better for acid reflux? ›
Avoid spices such as chili powder, chili oil, white and black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you suffer from acid reflux. Citrus: Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and their juices are acidic. Eating acidic food can increase the acid in the stomach and can worsen acid reflux symptoms.
