Timut peppercorns are perhaps one of the most unique and common spices in the world. It’s not just interesting to look at. It tastes truly amazing, unlike anything you’ve ever tasted before.
Timut peppercorn is not something you would want to use for everyday uses. Instead, it is better to reserve it for particular applications.
This may be because the flavor is unique. Or because it can be considered more expensive than traditional peppercorns.
On the other hand, we wouldn’t want to hold you back from using it as much as you want – go crazy!
Let’s talk a little about the origin of Timut’s unusual peppercorns.
What is Timut peppercorns?
This unique spice comes from Nepal. They are relatives of the Sichuan peppercorn and originate from Nepal. The fruits have a small black shell with a pungent aroma and flavor profile similar to grapefruit.
Unlike most peppercorns which have dark, bold flavors like wood, smoke and dried fruit. Timut peppercorns boast brighter, more nuanced flavors like citrus, freshly cut grass, and even some floral notes.
This is one of the reasons why it doesn’t work for all applications. Although the ones it works for work really well!
In 2018, the BBC listed Timut pepper as a trending ingredient for serving alcoholic beverages. As a gin and tonic for an extra boost.
We can see that it is really tasty given the increased citrus flavors of this peppercorn.
In the Himalayas, locals have been using the spice for hundreds of years. Celebrating it not only for its incredible flavor but also for its medicinal properties. More on that later!
What does Timut peppercorns taste like?
Let’s dive into the specifics of what makes Timut peppercorns so damn tasty.
The spice, although a bit unique in complexity, has a very intense citrus flavor profile. Specifically grapefruit. If you taste it very carefully, you can pick up some nuances of lemon, lime and even yuzu. Although the grapefruit flavor is definitely prominent.
In addition to the burst of citrus flavor, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the numbing, tingling effect pepper can have on the tongue.
It’s not something to worry about and is actually quite fun to experiment with.
The numbness also comes second to the potent flavor profile. It’s not really something you’d notice if the spice was mixed into a dish.
We will take some time to discuss these incredible numbing qualities of peppercorns in the next section.
The flavor can be so intense that peppercorns can be used as a substitute for breath mints or chewing gum.
So next time you think about buying that pack of gum, consider purchasing a container of Timunt peppercorns instead!
They will freshen your breath and are completely natural! This amazing flavor is something that should definitely be shared with the world.
While it is nice to consider that Timut peppercorns are rare and unusual. Imagine if the spice was as common as vanilla or cinnamon.
It would be a great addition to baking in cakes or custards or perhaps used to flavor ice cream.
We love Timut’s peppercorn ice cream idea! Maybe it’s just the foodie in us coming out. But we believe the general public would appreciate it too.
Does Timut peppercorns make our mouth numb?
Timut peppercorns will in fact induce a numb sensation on the tongue.
Although it’s not as bad as you might think.
Instead of leaving your entire mouth numb and unable to taste or feel sensations, the numbness is more of a buzzing tingling.
This sensation occurs mainly on the tip and sides of the tongue. However, if you move the peppercorns around in your mouth as you chew, you may experience these sensations in the back of your mouth as well.
The chemicals in Timut peppercorns that contribute to this effect are called hydroxy-alpha sanshool.
This paralyzing sensation is not only related to cooking but can also be therapeutic.
The numbness and tingling can have a calming effect on the body.
It can also be a stimulant, the same tingling sensation that can calm a person. And it might wake someone else up.
Imagine drinking a cup of Timut tea in the morning instead of coffee! This can be the surprising effect of spices. It can be much more than a culinary adventure – it can be an entire mental journey!
How do chefs cook with Timut peppercorns?
With the intense and unusual flavor profile of Timut peppercorns, is it difficult to work with?
Absolutely not!
But it definitely has specific applications that we think work better than others.
In fact, wherever you want to use a squeeze of citrus juice. This would be the perfect time to use Timut’s sweet aromatic peppercorns.
Timut peppercorns are best used for fish and vegetable applications. Even cocktails and desserts! Due to the intense citrus flavor profile, we find peppercorns do not work well with meat and meatier applications.
We think this peppercorn is incredible on raw fish preparations. Like raw, sushi and ceviche. Or perhaps a generous sprinkling on a slice of cod and then roasted in the oven. A delight!
Cocktails are also an excellent place to show off the incredible flavors of Timut peppercorn.
Try infusing them in a bottle of gin or vodka, or even simple syrup.
The bright citrus aroma will make your next cocktail party a smashing success! Darker alcohols can be used alongside Timut peppercorns. But you should infuse longer to really bring out the flavor.
The light citrus notes of Timut peppercorns would not be as prominent as in a gin or vodka infusion.
The most interesting thing about Timut peppercorns is its incredible flavor.
Don’t be afraid to highlight it in a way that really makes it shine. Don’t hide it on a plate. Allow it to shine!
What are the health benefits of Timut peppercorns?
Timut peppercorns have a wide range of health benefits.
These fascinating peppercorns taste amazing, but they can be good for you too!
- Peppercorns contain a chemical compound called zanthoxylum armatum. This special chemical is found in abundance and has a number of health benefits.
- Zanthoxylum is known to improve cognitive performance. It can increase the speed of performing certain tasks.
- Timut peppercorns also contain a very interesting type of oil. Essential oil to be precise!
We still don’t have a very clear idea of whether an essential oil is useful or not. One thing is for sure, it definitely smells good!
- In traditional East Asian medicine, Timut peppercorns were used to help with stomach and digestion problems. That time it is usually prepared with garlic, salt and water.
The numbing properties of Timut peppercorns can actually reduce the perception of pain. Isn’t that interesting?
When someone eats peppercorns, the spice takes over the pain receptors. Helps temporarily relieve mild suffering.
It should be noted that peppercorns will not completely heal the source of the pain. But instead it will act as a sort of buffer compound to temporarily mask the immediate pain.
- Studies have also been produced that demonstrate the specific nutritional properties of Timut Peppercorns. The spice contains relatively high levels of iron.
It has been shown to improve the circulatory system. Sends more oxygen to the red blood cells. All important functions for a healthy body!
When your body has low amounts of iron, it can make you feel tired or even dizzy.
Not good! If low iron is a condition you suffer from. Eating more Timut peppercorns may help.
- Additionally, Timut peppercorns have been shown to contain high levels of zinc. Don’t sleep on the importance of zinc in the body. This is a crucial element to be aware of!
When your body contains the adequate amount of zinc, it allows your immune system to function at its highest level. It will naturally help your body fight infections. And recover quickly from an otherwise daunting illness or injury.
- Timut peppercorns are also believed to contain compounds that result in anti-inflammatory effects on the body. It is possible that the spice improves circulation. It also works to reduce blood pressure.
Where can I buy Timut peppercorns online?
Timut peppercorns can easily be found online. It can be purchased from a multitude of sources. A simple Google search will reveal several options.
Of course, for the freshest, highest quality Timut peppercorns, we recommend buying from Lafayette Spices. You won’t be disappointed!
Final note
One of the best aspects of Timut peppercorns is their ability to last for long periods of time. it will not lose that characteristic flavour.
So while it might be a little more expensive than traditional peppercorns. It has a longer shelf life. And a little is enough! It should last you a while.
