Note: company may change item packaging time to time. We will ship latest packaging of same product. All Products will be shipped through India Post Registered Airmail. Delivery time: between 15 to 25 Business Days after Dispatch. Product will be shipped immediately on the same or next business day of receiving full payment. If for some reasons beyond our control, your area is not serviceable by our logistic partners, we will refund the money. Any sort of custom duties OR charges will be bared by buyers. We believe that all disputes can be settled by proper communication. CONTACT US If you have any query please feel free to contact us through eBay message system or by clicking «Ask a Question» tab below the listing. All Messages answers will be given within 24 to 36 Hours.
Turmeric Root Powder 100% Pure Non-GMOCurcumin Curcuma Longa1 lb. / 1 PoundBUY 2 GET 1 FREE !!! FREE SHIPPING !!!Turmeric Powder | 100% Raw from IndiaTurmeric powder is produced from pure turmeric rhizomes and is packed with curcumin, a strong antioxidant with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric has been known to support joint health, a strong digestive system and natural healing.Resealable PouchesTurmeric Powder (Curcuma Longa) – 100% Raw – No additives – Packed in Resealable PouchLong expiration dates – 1+ year from when we ship to you Premium Quality – Imported 100% raw from India ✓ Carefully Packed in New Jersey ✓Non-GMO ✓ NSF Certified ✓ GMP Manufacturing ✓ Healthy & DeliciousNatural plant-based superfood, Loaded with vitamins, minerals and plant sterols, Can support healthy joints, digestion and more FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSWhere does the Turmeric Powder come from?India. Our 100% raw, Turmeric Powder is imported to the USA directly from India.Do you add anything to the Turmeric Powder?No! Our Turmeric Powder is 100% raw with no additives.Is your Turmeric Powder Non-GMO?Yes! Plant Guru only sells Non-GMO products.Is your Turmeric Powder Gluten-Free?Yes!Are the bags resealable?Yes! Our Turmeric Powder comes packaged in the highest quality resealable pouch with a tear notch for easy opening. Bulk orders from 3 to 5 pounds are usually packaged in a commercial food grade bulk size poly bag. How can I use Turmeric Powder at home?Turmeric powder is produced from pure turmeric rhizomes and is packed with curcumin, a strong antioxidant with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric can support joint health, a strong digestive system and natural healing. Mix into smoothies, brew a cup of “Golden Milk” and supercharge your favorite recipes.What if I don’t like it?If you don’t have a good experience for any reason, just let us know and we’ll make it right.*FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Turmeric TeaIngredients1 tsp cinnamontsp fresh gingerpinch of clove, nutmeg and black pepper1 tsp turmeric (you can start adding more and more as you get used to the flavor!)1 1/2 c of waterRaw honey to sweetenMilk sub of choice (I recommend oat milk or coconut milk, but any will work just fine!)InstructionsSimmer herbs and water together in a sauce pan on med-high heat for 10 mins. Strain mixture. Add honey and milk. Drink up and feel good! Easy Curry PowderIngredients2 tbsp each of coriander, cumin, turmeric powder and ground ginger1 tsp each dry mustard and cinnamon1/2 tsp each ground black pepper, ground cardamom and cayenne pepper or ground chiliesInstructionsMix all ingredients together and shake to incorporate. Use in soups, scrambles, curries and more! Chicken CurryIngredients1/2 white onion1 garlic clove, finely chopped2 cups shredded chicken1 can tomato paste3 tbsp curry powder1/2 c walnuts, roughly chopped1 can coconut creamInstructionsSauté onions and garlic in avocado oil over medium heat until translucent. Stir in shredded chicken and walnuts for 2 mins. Add tomato paste and curry powder and stir to combine. Add can of coconut cream and stir to combine. Serve over rice. Enjoy and feel good! Plant Guru We source the finest quality ingredients and supplies from ethical producers worldwide. We supply all of our products at market leading prices with no gimmicks.We never sacrifice quality for price.The customer is always right and should always be treated the way our customer service reps would like to be treated.Appreciate every customer, large and small and do your best to service them. About Plant Guru: Our business was born online offering quality essential oils at a fair price. No advertising, No marketing plan, No multi pyramid pricing. This allows us to pass on a huge savings to our customers. We provide quality essential oils at the most affordable prices. From our experience if you stick to your principles, the business will take care of itself. These beliefs have allowed us to do great things. Our Mission: Plant Guru is a small family ran business with a passion for essentials. «Our business revolves round this passion» As essential oil users in our personal life, We were tired of the multi marketing companies. The prices for a small 15ml. bottle were getting is ridiculous. Everyone should be able to experience the healing power of essential oils. ShippingWe ship within two business days of payment, usually sooner. *Standard shipping takes between 3-5 business days.*We use a selection of shipping services such as UPS, FedEx, USPS etc.*Expedited shipping takes between 2-3 business days.*We do not accept P.O. BOXES -PLEASE PROVIDE A PHYSICAL ADDRESS.We ship within two business days of payment, usually sooner. Feedback Positive feedback is provided on every transaction you make with us and we ask that you do the same.Once we have been notified that you have received your item and are happy with it, we will post you a feedback.For any reason, if you decide to leave a neutral or negative feedback, please contact us first and let us mutually resolve it. It is impossible to address issues if we do not know about them!We care for your satisfaction and will make sure that you are happy with the transaction to post us your FIVE STAR ratings in all areas.
Turmeric Root Powder 3 lbs.100% Pure Non-GMOCurcuma Longa3 Pound Resealable Pouch!!! FREE SHIPPING !!!Turmeric Powder | 100% Raw from IndiaTurmeric powder is produced from pure turmeric rhizomes and is packed with curcumin, a strong antioxidant with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric has been known to support joint health, a strong digestive system and natural healing.Resealable PouchesTurmeric Powder (Curcuma Longa) – 100% Raw – No additives – Packed in Resealable PouchLong expiration dates – 1+ year from when we ship to you Premium Quality – Imported 100% raw from India ✓ Carefully Packed in New Jersey ✓Non-GMO ✓ NSF Certified ✓ GMP Manufacturing ✓ Healthy & DeliciousNatural plant-based superfood, Loaded with vitamins, minerals and plant sterols, Can support healthy joints, digestion and more FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSWhere does the Turmeric Powder come from?India. Our 100% raw, Turmeric Powder is imported to the USA directly from India.Do you add anything to the Turmeric Powder?No! Our Turmeric Powder is 100% raw with no additives.Is your Turmeric Powder Non-GMO?Yes! Plant Guru only sells Non-GMO products.Is your Turmeric Powder Gluten-Free?Yes!Are the bags resealable?Yes! Our Turmeric Powder comes packaged in the highest quality resealable pouch with a tear notch for easy opening. Bulk orders from 3 to 5 pounds are usually packaged in a commercial food grade bulk size poly bag. How can I use Turmeric Powder at home?Turmeric powder is produced from pure turmeric rhizomes and is packed with curcumin, a strong antioxidant with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric can support joint health, a strong digestive system and natural healing. Mix into smoothies, brew a cup of “Golden Milk” and supercharge your favorite recipes.What if I don’t like it?If you don’t have a good experience for any reason, just let us know and we’ll make it right.*FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Turmeric TeaIngredients1 tsp cinnamontsp fresh gingerpinch of clove, nutmeg and black pepper1 tsp turmeric (you can start adding more and more as you get used to the flavor!)1 1/2 c of waterRaw honey to sweetenMilk sub of choice (I recommend oat milk or coconut milk, but any will work just fine!)InstructionsSimmer herbs and water together in a sauce pan on med-high heat for 10 mins. Strain mixture. Add honey and milk. Drink up and feel good! Easy Curry PowderIngredients2 tbsp each of coriander, cumin, turmeric powder and ground ginger1 tsp each dry mustard and cinnamon1/2 tsp each ground black pepper, ground cardamom and cayenne pepper or ground chiliesInstructionsMix all ingredients together and shake to incorporate. Use in soups, scrambles, curries and more! Chicken CurryIngredients1/2 white onion1 garlic clove, finely chopped2 cups shredded chicken1 can tomato paste3 tbsp curry powder1/2 c walnuts, roughly chopped1 can coconut creamInstructionsSauté onions and garlic in avocado oil over medium heat until translucent. Stir in shredded chicken and walnuts for 2 mins. Add tomato paste and curry powder and stir to combine. Add can of coconut cream and stir to combine. Serve over rice. Enjoy and feel good! Plant Guru We source the finest quality ingredients and supplies from ethical producers worldwide. We supply all of our products at market leading prices with no gimmicks.We never sacrifice quality for price.The customer is always right and should always be treated the way our customer service reps would like to be treated.Appreciate every customer, large and small and do your best to service them. About Plant Guru: Our business was born online offering quality essential oils at a fair price. No advertising, No marketing plan, No multi pyramid pricing. This allows us to pass on a huge savings to our customers. We provide quality essential oils at the most affordable prices. From our experience if you stick to your principles, the business will take care of itself. These beliefs have allowed us to do great things. Our Mission: Plant Guru is a small family ran business with a passion for essentials. «Our business revolves round this passion» As essential oil users in our personal life, We were tired of the multi marketing companies. The prices for a small 15ml. bottle were getting is ridiculous. Everyone should be able to experience the healing power of essential oils. ShippingWe ship within two business days of payment, usually sooner. *Standard shipping takes between 3-5 business days.*We use a selection of shipping services such as UPS, FedEx, USPS etc.*Expedited shipping takes between 2-3 business days.*We do not accept P.O. BOXES -PLEASE PROVIDE A PHYSICAL ADDRESS.We ship within two business days of payment, usually sooner. Feedback Positive feedback is provided on every transaction you make with us and we ask that you do the same.Once we have been notified that you have received your item and are happy with it, we will post you a feedback.For any reason, if you decide to leave a neutral or negative feedback, please contact us first and let us mutually resolve it. It is impossible to address issues if we do not know about them!We care for your satisfaction and will make sure that you are happy with the transaction to post us your FIVE STAR ratings in all areas.
Rani Coriander Ground Powder (Indian Dhania) Spice 3.5oz (100g) ~ All Natural | Salt-Free | Vegan | No Colors | Gluten Friendly | NON-GMO | Kosher | Indian Origin Rani Coriander Ground Indigenous to the Mediterranean region, coriander is now cultivated worldwide. With its slight citrus flavor, coriander is known to be used in both savory and sweet dishes. In India, it is an essential ingredient in curry powder, garam masala and in the Gujurati blend, dhana-jeeru. In the Middle East, it is popular in minced meat dishes and is known in Europe for seasoning sausages and stews RECIPE:Tomato Curry Cook time: 20 minutes Prep time: 10 minutes Serving size: 4 Heat level: Medium 14oz can tomatoes 1 tsp chopped ginger 2 cloves garlic chopped 1 tsp. Rani Chili Powder 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp Rani Coriander powder 1/2 tsp Rani Cumin Powder 4 tbsp. vegetable or olive oil 1/2 tsp. Rani Kalongi (onion) seeds 1/2 tsp. Rani Mustard Seeds 1/2 tsp. Rani Fenugreek seeds 3 dried red chillies 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice 3 hard boiled eggs In a large mixing bowel add tomatoes, ginger, garlic, chili powder, salt coriander, cumin and blend. In sauce pan heat oil and add kalongi, mustard, fenugreek seeds, stir fry for 1 minute. Add tomato mixture to sauté pan and stir fry for about 3 minutes and reduce heat, cover and cook for 7-10min. Stir frequently. Remove from heat. Cut hard boiled eggs into quarters. Add eggs and lemon juice to sauce. Garnish with cilantro if desired. PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS Product of India Alternate Name (Indian) Dhania Ground Product Type: Ground Powder Ingredients: Ground Coriander Features You’ll LOVE our Coriander Powder Ground by Rani Brand–Here’s Why:❤️Now KOSHER! 100% Natural, Non-GMO, No Preservatives, Vegan, Gluten Friendly, PREMIUM Gourmet Food Grade Spice.❤️Comes from the oil rich coriaander of the Orissa region of India, not Canada like most coriander found in the USA.❤️Rani is a USA based company selling spices for over 40 years, buy with confidence!❤️Net Wt. 3.5oz (100g), Product of India, Alternate Names: Dhania Powder Fast and Free Shipping You’re already purchasing the item. Why pay additional for shipping, especially slow shipping? We get your order shipped out within 1-business day and delivered to your doorstep as quickly as possible. Fresh products Nearly all of our products have expiration dates. We are the manufacturers, distributors & retailer of our products. In the industry known as vertically integrated, for you that means you are getting the freshest possible products at the best prices! Competitive Pricing With our dynamic pricing model, our prices are always competitive. Our prices are some of the lowest that you will find on the internet. Rest assured that you’re getting a good deal when purchasing with us.
Turmeric Root Powder Curcumin 100% Pure Non-GMO Curcuma Longa8 oz. / 1/2 PoundBUY 3 GET 1 FREE Must add all 4 to cart to qualify for this – No exceptionsYou will only be charged for 3!!! FREE SHIPPING !!!Turmeric Powder | 100% Raw from IndiaTurmeric powder is produced from pure turmeric rhizomes and is packed with curcumin, a strong antioxidant with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric has been known to support joint health, a strong digestive system and natural healing.Resealable PouchesTurmeric Powder (Curcuma Longa) – 100% Raw – No additives – Packed in Resealable PouchLong expiration dates – 1+ year from when we ship to you Premium Quality – Imported 100% raw from India ✓ Carefully Packed in New Jersey ✓Non-GMO ✓ NSF Certified ✓ GMP Manufacturing ✓ Healthy & DeliciousNatural plant-based superfood, Loaded with vitamins, minerals and plant sterols, Can support healthy joints, digestion and more FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSWhere does the Turmeric Powder come from?India. Our 100% raw, Turmeric Powder is imported to the USA directly from India.Do you add anything to the Turmeric Powder?No! Our Turmeric Powder is 100% raw with no additives.Is your Turmeric Powder Non-GMO?Yes! Plant Guru only sells Non-GMO products.Is your Turmeric Powder Gluten-Free?Yes!Are the bags resealable?Yes! Our Turmeric Powder comes packaged in the highest quality resealable pouch with a tear notch for easy opening. Bulk orders from 3 to 5 pounds are usually packaged in a commercial food grade bulk size poly bag. How can I use Turmeric Powder at home?Turmeric powder is produced from pure turmeric rhizomes and is packed with curcumin, a strong antioxidant with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric can support joint health, a strong digestive system and natural healing. Mix into smoothies, brew a cup of “Golden Milk” and supercharge your favorite recipes.What if I don’t like it?If you don’t have a good experience for any reason, just let us know and we’ll make it right.*FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Turmeric TeaIngredients1 tsp cinnamontsp fresh gingerpinch of clove, nutmeg and black pepper1 tsp turmeric (you can start adding more and more as you get used to the flavor!)1 1/2 c of waterRaw honey to sweetenMilk sub of choice (I recommend oat milk or coconut milk, but any will work just fine!)InstructionsSimmer herbs and water together in a sauce pan on med-high heat for 10 mins. Strain mixture. Add honey and milk. Drink up and feel good! Easy Curry PowderIngredients2 tbsp each of coriander, cumin, turmeric powder and ground ginger1 tsp each dry mustard and cinnamon1/2 tsp each ground black pepper, ground cardamom and cayenne pepper or ground chiliesInstructionsMix all ingredients together and shake to incorporate. Use in soups, scrambles, curries and more! Chicken CurryIngredients1/2 white onion1 garlic clove, finely chopped2 cups shredded chicken1 can tomato paste3 tbsp curry powder1/2 c walnuts, roughly chopped1 can coconut creamInstructionsSauté onions and garlic in avocado oil over medium heat until translucent. Stir in shredded chicken and walnuts for 2 mins. Add tomato paste and curry powder and stir to combine. Add can of coconut cream and stir to combine. Serve over rice. Enjoy and feel good! Plant Guru We source the finest quality ingredients and supplies from ethical producers worldwide. We supply all of our products at market leading prices with no gimmicks.We never sacrifice quality for price.The customer is always right and should always be treated the way our customer service reps would like to be treated.Appreciate every customer, large and small and do your best to service them. About Plant Guru: Our business was born online offering quality essential oils at a fair price. No advertising, No marketing plan, No multi pyramid pricing. This allows us to pass on a huge savings to our customers. We provide quality essential oils at the most affordable prices. From our experience if you stick to your principles, the business will take care of itself. These beliefs have allowed us to do great things. Our Mission: Plant Guru is a small family ran business with a passion for essentials. «Our business revolves round this passion» As essential oil users in our personal life, We were tired of the multi marketing companies. The prices for a small 15ml. bottle were getting is ridiculous. Everyone should be able to experience the healing power of essential oils. ShippingWe ship within two business days of payment, usually sooner. *Standard shipping takes between 3-5 business days.*We use a selection of shipping services such as UPS, FedEx, USPS etc.*Expedited shipping takes between 2-3 business days.*We do not accept P.O. BOXES -PLEASE PROVIDE A PHYSICAL ADDRESS.We ship within two business days of payment, usually sooner. Feedback Positive feedback is provided on every transaction you make with us and we ask that you do the same.Once we have been notified that you have received your item and are happy with it, we will post you a feedback.For any reason, if you decide to leave a neutral or negative feedback, please contact us first and let us mutually resolve it. It is impossible to address issues if we do not know about them!We care for your satisfaction and will make sure that you are happy with the transaction to post us your FIVE STAR ratings in all areas.
Rani Cardamom (Elachi) Ground, Powder Indian Spice 3.5oz (100g) ~ All Natural | No Color Added | Gluten Friendly | Vegan | NON-GMO | Kosher | No Salt or Fillers CardamomA Little History! Cardamom is native to the forest of South India, where it grows wild. Second only to the spice saffron in value, cardamom is one of the worlds most expensive spice. Cardamom can enhance both sweet and savory dishes. It has been important in Indian cuisine for thousands of years, being a useful ingredient in sumptuous curries to adding a camphoric flavor to Indian masala chai. Product Type: Ground Powder Packaging: Plastic Jar Net Wt. Net Wt. 7oz (200g) Product of India Alternative Name (Indian) Ground Elachi Features You’ll LOVE our Cardamom Ground by Rani Brand–Here’s Why:❤️️Now KOSHER! 100% Natural, No preservatives, Additives or Colors, All Natural, Non-GMO, Gluten Friendly, PREMIUM Gourmet Food Grade Spice.❤️️SPECIAL NOTE: This is high quality ground cardamom, we only grind the SEEDS of Green Cardamom Pods, not the pods themselves, our product will be stronger and more flavorful… darker in color too.❤️️Packed in a no barrier Plastic Bag, let us tell you how important that is when using this, potent of all Indian Spices! Rani is a USA based company selling spices for over 40 years, buy with confidence!❤️️NO FILLERS in any Rani Brand Spices (fillers are commonly used in spices to make them free flowing or lessen the costs of production) usually sodium or like product. Net Wt. 3.5oz (100g), Authentic Indian Product (Product of India), Alternative Name: (Indian) Ground Elachi Fast and Free Shipping You’re already purchasing the item. Why pay additional for shipping, especially slow shipping? We get your order shipped out within 1-business day and delivered to your doorstep as quickly as possible. Fresh products Nearly all of our products have expiration dates. We are the manufacturers, distributors & retailer of our products. In the industry known as vertically integrated, for you that means you are getting the freshest possible products at the best prices! Competitive Pricing With our dynamic pricing model, our prices are always competitive. Our prices are some of the lowest that you will find on the internet. Rest assured that you’re getting a good deal when purchasing with us.
Rani Cumin Seeds Whole (Jeera) Spice 3.5oz (100g) ~ All Natural | Gluten Friendly | NON-GMO | Vegan | Indian Origin Cumin Seeds (Jeera)A Little History! Native to Upper Egypt, now cultivated throughout India. This spice is used in numerous kitchens around the world. Cumin is a main ingredient in Indian cooking, blends with various spices to make curry powder, garam masalas and other blends. Tasting slightly bitter, sharp and warm, cumin has a very heavy, strong aroma. Product Type: Whole Cumin Seeds, 100% recleaned Packaging: Plastic Bag Net Wt. 3.5oz (100gm) Product of India Have not Cooked with it before? RECIPE: Aloo Gobi Cook time: 15 minutes Prep time: 10 minutes Serving size: 4 Heat level: Medium 3 tbsp. butter 4 tbsp. water ½ tbsp. Rani chili powder ½ tsp. Rani Ajwain seeds 2 tsp. salt ½ tsp. Rani Coriander powder ½ tbsp. Rani Cumin Seeds ½ tbsp. Rani Turmeric powder 1 large potato cut in quarter cubes 1 head of cauliflower broken into florets 1 onion sliced Method: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves In wok or large fry pan sauté onion, cumin and butter for 3 minutes. Add potato and water. Cover and cook for 5 minutes. Uncover, add turmeric, chilli powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well and add cauliflower. Cover for and additional 7 minutes, while continuing to stir occasionally. Turn heat off and let sit for a few minutes. Uncover and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Features You’ll LOVE our Cumin Seeds by Rani Brand–Here’s Why:❤️100% Natural, Non-GMO, No Preservatives, Vegan, Gluten Friendly, PREMIUM Gourmet Food Grade Spice.❤️️Product of India (Not Syria which is cheaper), India Cumin has a unique sweet-bitter profile not found in any other. Packed in a no barrier Plastic Bag, let us tell you how important that is when handling Indian Spices!❤️️Rani is a USA based company selling spices for over 40 years, buy with confidence!❤️️Pure! NO FILLERS in any Rani Brand Spices (fillers are commonly used in spices to make them free flowing or lessen the costs of production) usually sodium or like product. NONE of our spices have any GMOs. Native to South Asian – farmed and cultivated at the source that has been doing for 1000’s of years – Net Wt. 3.5oz (100g), Authentic Indian Product, Alternate Names: Jeera (Hindi) Fast and Free Shipping You’re already purchasing the item. Why pay additional for shipping, especially slow shipping? We get your order shipped out within 1-business day and delivered to your doorstep as quickly as possible. Fresh products Nearly all of our products have expiration dates. We are the manufacturers, distributors & retailer of our products. In the industry known as vertically integrated, for you that means you are getting the freshest possible products at the best prices! Competitive Pricing With our dynamic pricing model, our prices are always competitive. Our prices are some of the lowest that you will find on the internet. Rest assured that you’re getting a good deal when purchasing with us.
WE GUARANTEE THAT WE HAVE THE BEST PRICE AND QUALITY ON EBAY !8 OZ 100% GROWN ORGANICALLY PREMIUM PEPPER PEPPERCORNS BLACK WHOLE, PRODUCT OF INDIA FREE SHIPPING, FAST DELIVERY.30 DAYS MONEY BACK, NO RESTOCKING FEE! Health BenefitsImprove Digestion and Promote Intestinal Health Black pepper (Piper nigrum)stimulates the taste buds in such a way that an alert is sent to to the stomach to increase hydrochloric acid secretion, thereby improving digestion. Hydrochloric acid is necessary for the digestion of proteins and other food components in the stomach. When the body’s production of hydrochloric acid is insufficient, food may sit in the stomach for an extended period of time, leading to heartburn or indigestion, or it may pass into the intestines, where it can be used as a food source for unfriendly gut bacteria, whose activities produce gas, irritation, and/or diarrhea or constipation. Black pepper has long been recognized as a carminitive, (a substance that helps prevent the formation of intestinal gas), a property likely due to its beneficial effect of stimulating hydrochloric acid production. In addition, black pepper has diaphoretic (promotes sweating), and diuretic (promotes urination) properties. Black pepper has demonstrated impressive antioxidant and antibacterial effects–yet another way in which this wonderful seasoning promotes the health of the digestive tract. And not only does black pepper help you derive the most benefit from your food, the outer layer of the peppercorn stimulates the breakdown of fat cells, keeping you slim while giving you energy to burn. Description Black pepper comes from the berries of the pepper plant. Black pepper, green pepper and white peppercorns are actually the same fruit (Piper nigrum); the difference in their color is a reflection of varying stages of development and processing methods. Black peppercorns are made by picking the pepper berries when they are half ripe and just about to turn red. They are then left to dry which causes them to shrivel and become dark in color. Alternatively, green peppercorns are picked while still unripe and green in color, while white peppercorns are picked when very ripe and subsequently soaked in brine to remove their dark outer shell leaving just the white pepper seed. Pink peppercorns are actually from a completely different plant species (Schinus molle) that is related to ragweed. Black pepper is the most pungent and flavorful of all types of peppers and it is available as whole or cracked peppercorns or ground into powder. History Native to India, pepper has played a very important role throughout history and has been a prized spice since ancient times. Since ancient Greece, pepper has held such high prestige that it was not only used as a seasoning but as a currency and a sacred offering. Pepper was used to both honor the gods and to pay taxes and ransoms. During the fall of ancient Rome, the invading barbarians were even honored by being given black pepper. Additionally, in the Middle Ages the wealth of a man was oftentimes measured by his stockpile of pepper. The reason that pepper was so cherished is that it served important culinary purposes. Not only could its pungency spice up otherwise bland foods, but it could disguise a food’s lack of freshness, the latter being an especially important quality in the times before efficient means of preservation. Pepper became an important spice that catalyzed much of the spice trade. This not only led to exploration of many undiscovered lands, but also to the development of major merchant cities in Europe and the Middle East. Today, the major commercial producers of pepper are India and Indonesia. How to Select and Store Black pepper is available whole, crushed or ground into powder. To ensure best flavor, buy whole peppercorns and grind them yourself in a mill just before adding to a recipe. In addition to superior flavor, buying whole peppercorns will help to ensure that you are purchasing unadulterated pepper since ground pepper is oftentimes mixed with other spices. Whole peppercorns should be heavy, compact and free of any blemishes. Even through dried herbs and spices like black pepper are widely available in supermarkets, you may want to explore the local spice stores in your area. Oftentimes, these stores feature an expansive selection of dried herbs and spices that are of superior quality and freshness than those offered in regular markets. Just like with other dried spices, when purchasing black pepper try to select that which is organically grown since this will give you more assurance that it has not been irradiated (among other potential adverse effects, irradiating black pepper may lead to a significant decrease in its vitamin C content.) Black pepper should be kept in a tightly sealed glass container in a cool, dark and dry place. Whole peppercorns will keep almost indefinitely, while ground pepper will stay fresh for about three months. Pepper can also be frozen although this will make its flavor more pronounced.