White pepper is a spice derived from the matured berries of the pepper plant, Piper nigrum. It is created by soaking fully ripened black peppercorns in water to remove the outer black skin, revealing the inner seed with its pale color. This process results in a milder and subtler flavor compared to black pepper, making white pepper a popular choice in dishes where a less pungent and more delicate peppery taste is desired. It is widely used in a variety of cuisines, including Asian, European, and American, to season soups, sauces, seafood, and light-colored dishes, where the dark specks of black pepper might be visually undesirable. White pepper is appreciated for its ability to add a gentle heat and depth of flavor to foods without overpowering their overall taste.