History
Black pepper was once so valuable it was used as currency. The pepper trade drove the Age of Exploration, with European powers seeking sea routes to India to bypass Arab and Venetian monopolies.
How to grow
Grows only in tropical climates.
Plant vines in rich, well-drained soil with support.
Keep consistently moist and warm.
Harvest when berries turn red, then dry to black.
Choosing and storing
Choose large, heavy, aromatic peppercorns.
Avoid dull, light, or musty-smelling peppercorns.
Store whole peppercorns in an airtight jar.
Keep in a cool, dry, dark place.
Use within 1–2 years.
Preparation
Grind fresh in a pepper mill.
Crack coarsely for crusts and rubs.
Use whole in stocks and pickling.