Black pepper is a common spice used in many cuisines. Did you know that 100 grams of black pepper contains 283 calories? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the nutritional benefits of black pepper and how to incorporate it into your cooking.

Black pepper is low in fat and carbohydrates, with only 3.3 grams of fat and 38 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams. It also has a moderate amount of protein, with 10.4 grams in each serving.

In addition to being a popular spice, black pepper has a variety of health benefits that we’ll explore in this article.

Calories in 100 grams of Black Pepper

As mentioned earlier, 100 grams of black pepper contains 283 calories. This makes it a good option for anyone looking to add flavor to their meals without consuming too many calories. Of course, it's rare that you would consume 100 grams of black pepper in one sitting. The spice is usually added to food in smaller amounts, which means the calorie intake is much lower.

Fat, Protein, and Carbohydrate Content

Black pepper is a low-fat, low-carb spice that also provides a small amount of protein. For every 100 grams of black pepper, you’ll consume just 3.3 grams of fat, 38 grams of carbohydrates, and 10.4 grams of protein. This makes black pepper a great option for people who are trying to maintain a healthy weight.

Vitamins and Minerals in Black Pepper

Black pepper is a good source of several key vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and manganese. It also contains trace amounts of other important micronutrients, such as iron, calcium, and potassium. While you’re not likely to consume large amounts of black pepper in a single serving, the spice can certainly add up when it’s added to multiple meals throughout the day.

Health Benefits of Black Pepper

In addition to its nutritional benefits, black pepper can also be good for your health in other ways. For example, studies have shown that black pepper may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation. It’s also been suggested that black pepper may help prevent the growth of cancer cells and improve digestive health.

Side Effects of Consuming Too Much Black Pepper

While black pepper is generally safe for most people to consume, eating too much of it can cause some unwanted side effects. For example, some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or heartburn if they consume too much black pepper. It’s also possible that excessive black pepper could cause an allergic reaction in some people, so it’s important to use the spice in moderation.

Black Pepper Uses in Cooking

Black pepper can be used in a variety of different ways in cooking. For example, it can be used as a seasoning for meats, vegetables, and salads, or it can be used to add flavor to soups or stews. Some people even like to sprinkle black pepper on top of their eggs in the morning for an added kick of flavor.

How to Store Black Pepper

To preserve the flavor of your black pepper, it’s important to store it properly. The best way to do this is to keep your black pepper in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your black pepper in the fridge or freezer, as this can cause the spice to lose its flavor.

Different Types of Black Pepper

There are several different types of black pepper available, each with their own unique flavor and aroma. For example, Tellicherry black pepper is known for its fruity, almost wine-like flavor, while Malabar black pepper has a more earthy taste. Other popular varieties of black pepper include Sarawak black pepper, which is grown in Malaysia, and Vietnamese black pepper, which has a strong, spicy flavor.

Black Pepper vs. White Pepper

While both black pepper and white pepper come from the same plant, they have slightly different flavors and uses. White pepper is made by removing the outer layer of the pepper berry, while black pepper is made by leaving the outer layer intact. White pepper has a more subtle flavor than black pepper and is often used in dishes where the cook doesn't want the black pepper to be seen. White pepper is also used in lighter-colored dishes, such as Alfredo sauce, where black pepper would look out of place.

Where to Buy Black Pepper

Black pepper is available at most grocery stores and supermarkets. You can find it in the spice aisle, usually in small jars or in bulk containers. You can also buy black pepper online if you’re looking for a specific variety that may not be available in your local stores.