How and where does pink pepper grow and in what areas it is used
Pink, Peruvian, Brazilian pepper, Shinus are all names of one plant. It is not as popular as black or allspice peas, but it is endowed with unique qualities. It is widely used in cooking, cosmetology and perfumery. In this article we will tell you about the beneficial properties of pink pepper, contraindications and features of its use.
The content of the article
What is pink pepper
Pink peas are the fruit of a flowering shinus plant that is native to South America and does not share characteristics with the pepper tree. Its fruits are similar to pepper only in appearance and are devoid of the usual pungency and bright spicy aroma. After flowering, clusters are formed that resemble small peas. They are initially green in color and turn red as they mature.
Peas have a tart taste, slightly sweet and not very peppery smell. This versatile seasoning is suitable for both savory and sweet dishes.
What does it look like
The fruits of the shinus are hollow inside, have a rounded shape, resembling black peppercorns, with a diameter of 3-5 mm. When pressing the berry, you can feel a small black grain inside. In the photo you can see what pink pepper looks like on a tree.
How and where it grows
Shinus is an evergreen plant, a direct relative of pistachio and mango... Grows in the form of shrubs or trees 10-15 m tall. The average life expectancy is 30 years. The branches look like a vine. Blooms yellow-white flowers in the form of tassels once a year. From the flowers, peas are formed: at first, the fruits have a green tint, then white and at the end turn red. It is in this form that they are collected.
The plant loves the sun, grows not only in South America, but also in many countries with hot climates. However, only the Brazilian tree produces fruits that have the qualities of a spice.
Composition and properties
In nature, products with such a set of nutrients are rarely found. The shinus contains:
- all B vitamins;
- vitamin C;
- vitamin E;
- vitamin PP;
- vitamin H;
- iron;
- potassium;
- calcium;
- manganese;
- sodium;
- phosphorus.
Surprisingly, pink pepper is quite high in calories: 100 g contains 250 kcal.
Nutrients:
- proteins - 5 g;
- carbohydrates - 40 g;
- fats - 8 g.
Anthocyanins in pepper act as antioxidants: they reduce inflammation and kill viruses.
Bioflavonoids are phenolic compounds that protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals. Prevents skin aging and premature aging.
Gallic acid acts as an antibiotic and antiviral agent.
Smell and taste
Pink pepper does not smell, but if ground, it emits a faint citrus aroma, mixed with the smell of cedar and pine. Taste - sweetish, fresh, resinous, slightly menthol aftertaste and subtle peppery aftertaste. Given the fragrance of the tire, it is recommended to use it immediately after grinding.
Applying pink pepper
Shinus is used as:
- seasonings for meat, vegetables, baked goods, canned food, desserts;
- cosmetic product;
- component of perfumes.
In cooking
Pink pepper is widely used in Mediterranean, Mexican, Brazilian and American cuisine. Spice improves the taste of meat and fish dishes, enhances the taste of poultry meat.
The lightweight structure of the tire transfers aroma easily and does not need to be heat treated.Experienced chefs add freshly ground pepper to hot dishes just before serving. This fully reveals the flavor of the spice.
Pink peppercorns are ideal for any kind of sea fish with a neutral taste. It gives a light smoke aroma, a little pungency, revealing the taste of fish cooked on a fire.
Shinus is added to tonic drinks, cold dishes, cream soups, sauces. They are used to decorate desserts and sweet pastries.
Advice... Heat the peas in a hot skillet. So the aroma will open up and become brighter.
In cosmetology and perfumery
Pink pepper contains essential oil, which is used for the preparation of cosmetics:
- alcohol tonics to eliminate acne and other skin rashes;
- scrubs from ground tire based on heavy cream, honey, vegetable oils to get rid of stretch marks, cellulite, skin irregularities;
- masks of ground pepper with extra virgin olive oil and honey to enhance hair growth and eliminate dandruff.
The fresh, sparkling-spicy aroma of rose berries is used in the top notes in the production of perfumes. The pepper helps to enhance the composition and blends harmoniously with cardamom, nutmeg and incense. Pink pepper is used by Gucci, Giorgio Armani, Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent.
Benefit and harm
Shinus fruits contain a large amount of phenolic compounds that have a beneficial effect on the human body:
- kill viruses, fungi, bacteria;
- speed up metabolism;
- relieve spasms;
- prevent the risk of developing tumors;
- anesthetize;
- improve blood circulation;
- break down body fat;
- ease the condition with arthritis and osteochondrosis;
- increase skin elasticity;
- tone up;
- reduce fever in ARVI;
- stimulate digestion;
- improve appetite.
It is advisable to exclude pink pepper from the diet in case of allergy to nuts. This is perhaps the only drawback of the spice.
Contraindications
People who are prone to allergic reactions are advised to consult a doctor before introducing pink pepper into their diet. When consumed excessively, it provokes diarrhea.
Nutritionists advise you to treat your shinus with caution if you suffer from:
- allergies;
- cardiovascular disease;
- high blood pressure;
- pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, ulcer).
Harvesting and storing pink pepper
The pink pepper is harvested after ripening. This is indicated by the red color of the peas. Dried entirely in the open air. The spice is not sold in crushed form, since it instantly loses its woody-fruity aroma. Canned pink peppers in a marinade are sometimes found on store shelves.
Dried berries are stored in glass jars or paper bags in a dark place for 1-2 years. Grind before use.
Read also:
How to cook pickled peppers in oil over the winter.
How to choose the right one when buying
Pink peas are not in short supply. They are found in spice shops, markets, and large supermarkets.
To buy a quality product:
- Pay attention to the date of collection and packaging.
- Choose pink or red peppercorns. Dark peas indicate unusability.
- Try the spice. A quality product has a pungent and sweetish taste, light haze and pine needles aroma.
- Do not use peppers mixed with black and allspice. Shinus is lost against the background of pronounced aromas.
Conclusion
Pink pepper is a spice with a unique composition and beneficial properties. A few freshly ground peas can enrich the taste of many dishes, making them a real culinary masterpiece. It is a versatile product that is used as a component of home cosmetics and perfume compositions.When used correctly, it only benefits the human body.