Red Kampot Pepper, 50g (short BBD)

Kampot Red Pepper PGI: A Gentle and Fruity Burst of Flavor

This Kampot red pepper reveals delicate floral and fruity aromas, subtly blending vanilla with candied citrus zest. It wonderfully enhances fish, vanilla compotes, and white meats.

A Piper Nigrum Straight from Cambodia

What is Piper Nigrum?

Kampot pepper belongs to the botanical species Piper nigrum, cultivated notably in India, Cameroon, and Southeast Asia. This climbing plant can reach several meters in height. The color of the berries—green, black, white, or red—depends on their ripeness and the processing method. Each color offers a unique aromatic profile.

The Secrets Behind the Cultivation of Kampot Red Pepper

The vines bear clusters of berries for several months. When the berries turn a vibrant red, they are quickly harvested before fermentation sets in. In Kampot, the red berries are first blanched in boiling water, then instantly chilled in ice water. They are then carefully dried in alternating shade and sunlight to fix their aromas and rich red color. The peppercorns are finally hand-sorted and graded to keep only the finest ones.

An Exceptional Tropical Terroir

Located in the southwest of Cambodia, the Kampot province enjoys a hot and humid climate that is ideal for growing Piper nigrum vines. The porous and well-draining soil prevents waterlogging, protecting the roots and supporting healthy growth.

Kampot Red Pepper: The Full Intensity of Mature Piper Nigrum

Kampot red pepper stands out with sweet, fruity, and vanilla notes, perfect for sweet-and-savory pairings or refined desserts. On the palate, you'll find hints of morello cherry, candied cherries, orange peel, and Bourbon vanilla. Rated as "fiery" on our spiciness scale, this pepper is both warm and vibrant.

It embodies the very essence of pepper: the intense aroma of fully ripened berries combined with the tangy heat of black pepper.

Culinary Inspirations with Kampot Red Pepper

Simple and Delicious Recipe Ideas

- Use it in sauces to elevate white meats and game.

- Pair it with apples, pears, and vanilla in compotes or tarts.

- Gently crush it to season seafood platters with finesse.

- Feeling adventurous? Cambodians enjoy it with grilled tarantulas... but a marinated beef dish will do the trick!

- Bruschettas: discover our Terre Exotique recipe here;

Impress Your Guests with Duck Breast Glazed in Kampot Red Pepper

Take your taste buds on a journey to Cambodia with this unique glazed duck breast recipe.

Prepare a flavorful marinade with garlic, ginger, star anise, Chinese five spice, nuoc mam sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and brown sugar. Don’t forget to generously add freshly ground red pepper! Let the duck breasts marinate for a full day, turning them at least once. Cook to your liking and enjoy.

A Love Story Between Cambodia and Kampot Pepper

At the Origins of This Exceptional Pepper

Pepper cultivation in Cambodia dates back to the Angkor Kingdom, as early as the 9th century. It was introduced by Chinese settlers from the Hainan region. Travel writings from the 18th century, particularly those of explorer Tcheou Ta Kouanau, confirm this origin.

During the colonial era, especially in the 19th century, Kampot pepper gained immense popularity and became a major export. It was even hailed as "the best pepper in the world!"

However, in 1975, the Khmer Rouge regime halted its production to replace it with rice. Only in the early 2000s did a few passionate farming families revive this deeply rooted national treasure.

Official Recognition: PGI and Beyond

In 2009, Kampot pepper became the first Cambodian product to receive a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). This well-deserved recognition honors a region nestled between sea and mountains, where generations of farmers proudly uphold their ancestral know-how.

The PGI certification was achieved with support from the Espelette chili producers’ union and assistance from the French Development Agency (AFD).

Discover Kampot red pepper in our exceptional gift box featuring the world’s finest pepper grands crus

Learn More About Pepper

What Is "Pepper"?

Piperology: The Science of Pepper Exploration

Piper Nigrum: Its Colors and Grands Crus