White Pepper

What Is White Pepper?

White pepper is a spice produced from the dried fruit of the pepper plant, Piper nigrum, as is black pepper. It is usually milder than black pepper, with less complex flavor. Both whole and ground white pepper are available.

What Does It Taste Like?

White pepper has a hot taste on the tongue, although sources differ on whether it is hotter or milder than black pepper. For example, Cook's Illustrated says it's milder, while others say it has a sharper bite. Sources agree that white pepper is less complex in flavor than black pepper. It can have a musty, earthy, or grassy flavor, which can vary depending on the type of processing used and handling after production. If you don't like those notes, you should try a different source of white pepper. With the widespread use of white pepper in Asian cuisine, people may associate it with that flavor profile.

Cooking With White Pepper

White pepper should be added after the dish has been cooked, as overheating can release a bitter flavor. It is chosen over black pepper either for appearance (as in creamed soups, mashed or whipped potatoes, and clam chowder) or because of the difference in heat and flavor, as with Asian dishes.