Pepper

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Pepper (Pĕp'pẽr)

Pepper (pronounced /ˈpɛpər/) is a common culinary spice derived from the plant genus Piper. The term is often used to refer to both the fruit and the spice produced from it.

Etymology

The word "pepper" originates from the Old English pipor, which is borrowed from the Latin piper, derived from the Greek piperi. The Latin word is the source of German Pfeffer, French poivre, Dutch peper, and other similar forms. In the 16th century, pepper started referring to the unrelated New World chili pepper as well.

Types of Pepper

There are several types of pepper, including:

  • Black pepper: Produced from the still-green unripe drupes of the pepper plant.
  • White pepper: Produced from the fully ripe pepper berries.
  • Green pepper: Like black pepper, but made from unripe pepper drupes.
  • Red pepper: Produced from the mature fruits of the pepper plant.

Usage

Pepper is used in a variety of culinary applications. It is often used in its ground form to add heat and flavor to dishes. It is also used in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda where it is thought to aid digestion.

Related Terms

  • Piperine: The alkaloid responsible for the pungency of black pepper.
  • Capsicum: A genus of plants in the nightshade family, which includes chili peppers.
  • Spice: A seed, fruit, root, bark, or other plant substance primarily used for flavoring or coloring food.

External links

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