The Simple Way To Tell If Your Black Pepper Isn't Pure
Black pepper is a staple seasoning in many cuisines, but not all black pepper is created equal. In recent years, there have been reports of fake black pepper being sold to unsuspecting consumers. Fake black pepper is made from other materials and lacks the flavor and aroma of real black pepper. So, it can be quite helpful to know how to tell if black pepper is real or not. With a few tips for avoiding fake black pepper, you can be more likely to buy the real seasoning.
Fake black pepper can be made from a variety of materials such as papaya seeds. These materials are often ground up and mixed with real black pepper to stretch the supply and increase profits. However, fake black pepper lacks the distinct flavor and aroma of the real thing, making it an inferior seasoning. To avoid buying an adulterated version, you can opt for a better form of pepper when you're restocking at the grocery store.
Buy whole peppercorns instead
The best way to ensure that you're getting real black pepper is to buy whole peppercorns instead of pre-ground pepper. Whole peppercorns are less likely to be adulterated with other materials, as it's more difficult to pass off fake peppercorns in their natural form.
One way to tell if peppercorns are real is by using the cracking test. Real peppercorns will crack easily when crushed or ground, releasing a strong and pungent aroma and leave a bit of oil behind. Fake peppercorns, on the other hand, will not crack as easily and will not have the same aroma. When in doubt, try crushing a few peppercorns and taking a whiff to see if they smell like real black pepper.
By using real black pepper, you can ensure that your dishes have the right flavor and aroma. With these tips and tests in mind, you can ensure that you are using real black pepper every time you season a dish.