OVERVIEW:
Though long pepper may not be as easy to find as black pepper, it has seen a resurgence in its culinary popularity in recent years. This catkin or spike-shaped spice is well worth seeking out. Long pepper and black pepper are not only close relatives but their taste is also similar and can typically be used interchangeably. Long pepper's flavor is much more complex than black pepper with the same heat and musk but with an almost earthy, sweet overtone of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cardamom. When the spike is broken or ground up it imparts an even greater pungency to food.
 
Used as a spice for a variety of dishes, long pepper's complexity takes well to ingredients with unusual, nuanced flavors, such as artichokes, asparagus, and mushrooms. It is the perfect complementary spice for sweet dishes, salads, vegetables, fresh fruit or even spicy and fruity desserts. On a global scale, it has been used in pickles, preserves, curries, soups, and sauces.
 
Long pepper has certain health benefits ascribed to it that have made it a popular spice in Ayurvedic medicine. It is used in digestive disorders, respiratory disorders and also for diseases of the liver. Long pepper is rich in alkaloids and essential nutrients and compounds that contribute to the better functioning of your entire system.
 
LATIN: 
Piper longum
ORIGIN:
India
CULTIVATION:
Organic
PARTS USED:
Catkin or Spike / Whole
TISANE "HERBAL" TEA BREW TIMES:
Ground tisane teas and tea bags - Steep 2 to 5 minutes
Loose leaf tisane teas - Steep 3-5 minutes
Root and seed-based tisane teas - Steep 6-8 minutes
*Steep in newly boiling water (212ºF) to best release the health benefits.
WHAT'S COOKING:
Long Pepper & Red Fruits Olive Oil Cookies
Stuffed Mushrooms
Pistachio-Pepper Ice Cream Topping
Roast Asparagus with Long Pepper Gremolata
Strawberry-Fennel Salad with Long Pepper