Black Pepper
Black pepper is the dried, dark outer fruit of the pepper plant, used whole, cracked, or ground. It adds sharp, warm, lightly floral heat to savory foods and many sauces, marinades, soups, and salads.
Identity
Sharp finishing spice
Fresh grinding gives the brightest aroma.
Black pepper loses aroma after grinding, so whole peppercorns keep better than pre-ground pepper. Add it early when you want background warmth, or near the end when you want a clearer pepper bite.
Reference image
Black pepper reference image.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Used In Recipes
Substitutions
Black Pepper -> Cayenne Pepper
Optional spices: freshly ground black pepper, cayenne pepper and/or garlic powder
The source lists this as an alternative in the same ingredient row.
Source: Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Black Pepper -> Garlic Powder
Optional spices: freshly ground black pepper, cayenne pepper and/or garlic powder
The source lists this as an alternative in the same ingredient row.
Source: Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Pepitas -> Black Pepper
Optional garnish: pepitas, parsley, and freshly ground black pepper
The source lists this as an alternative in the same ingredient row.
Source: ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP