Timut pepper is a spice native to Nepal, where it grows wild on the slopes of the Himalayas. It is actually a berry, belonging to the same family as citrus fruits, the Rutaceae. Its name means "red pepper" in Nepalese, but it has no botanical link with black pepper or white pepper, which come from a vine in the Piperaceae family. Timut pepper is also known as Timur berry, grapefruit pepper or Nepalese Sichuan pepper, because of its similarities to Sichuan berry, another spice in the same family.
What is Timut pepper?
Timut pepper comes in the form of small dark-brown berries, which are harvested by hand and dried in the sun. Only the pericarp, i.e. the outer shell, is eaten, as the seed is very hard and bitter. Timut pepper is characterised by its lemony aroma, reminiscent of grapefruit, lime or bergamot. It also has a slightly pungent, anaesthetic taste that causes a tingling sensation on the tongue.
The benefits of Timut pepper:
Timut pepper is a spice with multiple benefits. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and antiparasitic properties, enabling it to combat infections, inflammation, parasites and fungi. It is also said to aid digestion by stimulating the secretion of bile and gastric juices, and reducing flatulence and bloating. Timut pepper is also renowned for its ability to relieve pain, acting as a natural analgesic and soothing headaches, migraines, rheumatism, cramps and aches. Finally, it is also said to have protective properties for the skin, nourishing it by regenerating and firming it, making it an excellent asset for preventing skin ageing.
How do you use Timut pepper in cooking?
Timut pepper is a very versatile spice, which can be used in a wide range of recipes, both savoury and sweet. All you need to do is crush the berries in a mortar and pestle or a pepper mill, and add them at the end of cooking to preserve their flavour and aroma. Timut pepper goes very well with fish, seafood, white meats, vegetables, cheeses, soups, sauces, salads, marinades, jams, compotes, tarts, cakes, creams, ice creams, chocolates, fruit... It adds a touch of originality, freshness and exoticism to your dishes, enhancing them with its tangy, sparkling flavour. Here are a few recipe ideas using Timut pepper:
- Carpaccio of salmon marinated in lime, dill and Timut pepper.
- A salad of prawns, mango and avocado, seasoned with Timut pepper, honey and balsamic vinegar.
- Roast chicken with Timut pepper, honey and rosemary.
- A sauce with Timut pepper, cream and cognac to accompany steak or duck breast.
- Strawberry jam with Timut pepper and vanilla.
- Apple tart with Timut pepper.
- Chocolate cake with Timut pepper.
- Crème brûlée with Timut pepper and orange blossom.
- A mojito with Timut pepper, rum, lime and mint.
Timut pepper at Ecosystem Laboratoire :
Timut pepper is a spice well worth discovering, both for its health benefits and its citrus flavour. It will enable you to create original, tasty and refined recipes that will surprise your taste buds and those of your guests. And if you simply want to enjoy its benefits, we've got the solution: try our concentrated coffees containing this ingredient with its many virtues! Our 'Moga' range of concentrated coffees in liquid form all contain Timut Pepper.
