Roasted white Penja pepper PGI

The Aromas of Roasted White Penja Pepper

The delicate roasting of these white pepper grains reveals subtle and complex aromas, blending woody, spicy, and warm notes. The roasting process adds an extra depth to the pepper's flavor, evoking hints of vanilla and hazelnut.

Cultivation of White Penja Pepper

White Penja Pepper belongs to the Piperaceae family and is the fruit of the tropical vine Piper nigrum. It is harvested when fully ripe and then soaked in water to remove the pulp, exposing the seed.

How to Use Roasted White Penja Pepper in Cooking

Its flavors of sweet spices and roasted nutmeg notes pair perfectly with roast white meats served with a creamy sauce. It can also be combined with a light mayonnaise (mousseline) served with green asparagus, grilled sourdough bread, herb-infused poultry liver terrine, or a sautéed mix of heirloom vegetables. Try it with a cinnamon and Madagascar vanilla rice pudding.

Our Recipe Ideas for Using Roasted White Penja Pepper

• Grilled Salmon with Roasted White Penja Pepper: Season salmon fillets with Roasted White Penja Pepper, salt, and lemon juice, then grill them.
• Creamy Chicken with Roasted White Penja Pepper: Incorporate Roasted White Penja Pepper into a cream sauce to accompany chicken breasts.
• Roasted White Penja Pepper Risotto: Add Roasted White Penja Pepper to a creamy risotto for a refined flavor.
• Roasted Carrots with Roasted White Penja Pepper: Drizzle carrots with olive oil and sprinkle with Roasted White Penja Pepper before roasting in the oven.
• Roasted White Penja Pepper Ice Cream: Infuse Roasted White Penja Pepper into an ice cream base for an exotic note.
• Roasted White Penja Pepper Vegetable Skewers: Season vegetable skewers with Roasted White Penja Pepper before grilling.
• Roasted White Penja Pepper Vinaigrette: Prepare a vinaigrette by mixing Roasted White Penja Pepper with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey.

Origins of White Penja Pepper

White Penja Pepper gets its name from the Penja region in the Littoral province of Cameroon, Central Africa. Its history dates back to the 1950s when farmers introduced pepper cultivation to the region. However, it was in the 1980s that White Penja Pepper began to gain international attention due to its exceptional quality.

The uniqueness of the production process contributes to the fame of this pepper. The pepper grains are harvested when fully ripe and then soaked in water for about ten days. This method allows the pulp to detach, exposing the characteristic white seed. This particular process gives White Penja Pepper its subtle aroma and delicate flavor, with intense yet balanced heat.

White Penja Pepper: An Exceptional Pepper

In 2014, White Penja Pepper received the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, recognizing its close connection to the Penja region and guaranteeing its quality and authenticity. Today, this pepper is considered one of the best in the world, prized by chefs and aficionados of refined cuisine for its unique flavor profile.