Pepper

Black pepper, often called the “King of Spices,” is one of the most widely used and valued spices in the world. Derived from the dried berries of the Piper nigrum plant, peppercorns are harvested when nearly ripe and sun-dried until they turn black and wrinkled. Known for its sharp, pungent flavor and warming heat, black pepper enhances the taste of almost every savory dish, from curries and soups to marinades and salads. Rich in piperine, it aids digestion, improves nutrient absorption, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In Indian kitchens, pepper is used in spice blends, rasam, herbal teas, and traditional remedies for colds and sore throats. Its robust flavor makes it a pantry essential and a natural flavor enhancer.