Black peppercorn is a must have condiment in most households across the world. This spice which is used in a variety of cuisines is more than just a kitchen staple. Traditional medicine too finds use for this ‘King of Spice’ in their concoctions. Black pepper is probably one of the most recognized spices in the world. Native to South Asia this spice finds its origins in the Malnad region of India which now consists of Kodagu (Coorg), Kerala and the neighbouring regions.
This spice has a history of more than three centuries of trading. It has been established by archaeologists that this spice had found a majestic place in the cuisines of Egypt and Imperial Roman Empire. Black pepper due to high demand was considered as “black gold” along the Silk Road.

I am sure we can deliver deeper at some point into the historical journey of pepper, for today I would like to write of my association with this spice.

From my childhood I have seen my dad tend to these delicate and fragile creepers. (The harsh monsoons don’t help either.) Year after year dad would nurture and tend to these creepers ensuring that they survive and thrive. Many of the farmers found refuge in chemicals to help the vine and I used to always wonder why we stuck to traditional ways! Now that we have started reaching to our end customers with this venture, I can proudly say that this immunity boosting spice has infact boosted its own immunity after a lot of struggle and perseverance. This is the right way for it to grow and be true to its nature.

Today, black pepper is cultivated in many countries in Asia. However, the Indian pepper still commands its own unique space in the world market. This is due to the fact that nature provides the best possible environment for this spice to grow and flourish.

We in the MANTERI estate understand that people not only use our pepper for its taste but also for its immunity boosting properties. That is why we always stay as true to nature as possible. Here is a simple and warm recipe which my kids have taken a liking to. It is easy to prepare and can be had first thing in the morning or just before bed. The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric are activated when combined with black pepper. This is the reason the two are blended for better immunity.

Black Pepper and Turmeric Latte

Ingredients

• A cup of milk
• 8-10 freshly ground black peppercorns
• ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon of honey or any sweetener of your choice
• A pinch or two of cinnamon

Method

Heat the cup of milk until it’s just about to boil. Add the sweetener of your choice to the milk. Into your favourite mug add the crushed black peppercorn and turmeric powder. Take a small whisk and whisk the heated milk for 20-30 seconds until the milk is frothy. Pour this milk gently over the pepper and turmeric powder. The foam will rise to the top. If the foam is remaining top up your mug. Then add a dash of the cinnamon powder for garnish. And voila, your healthy Black Pepper and Turmeric Latte is ready to be savoured.