It is a pepper grown in the region of Penja, a town of 40,000 inhabitants in the Moungo department of Cameroon. Like all real peppers, such as Malabar pepper or Tellicheri pepper, for example, it is a cultivar of Piper nigrum, the species that is the origin of all round peppers, whether black, white, green or red. This exceptional pepper is produced entirely by human hands, without any mechanisation. Moreover, no specific treatment is involved in the drying process, which is carried out in a totally traditional way. Its specific aroma comes from the local volcanic soil. True pepper lovers particularly appreciate Penja pepper for its unique character, its earthy and powerful flavour, its characteristic acidity and many consider it the best pepper on the planet! It has a pronounced spiciness, exceptional length in the mouth, tenacious acidity, and a wild, earthy, powerful and warm aroma. In 2013, with the help of the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) and the French Development Agency (AFD), Penja pepper obtained the first PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) awarded to an African product. The local economy has benefited greatly, as the number of producers has increased from 20 to more than 200 in the few years since the previous designation was obtained. Use of Penja white pepper in cooking Knowing the intrinsic quality of this product, if it is obviously possible to use it as a simple pepper for cooking, one will get the best of it when associated with quality products. It is with seafood that it will give the full measure of its multiple flavours, for example associated with fine fish such as sea bass, sea bream, but also shellfish such as clams, oysters, lobster or lobster. Its exceptional quality allows it to be used, like many great peppers, in a universal way. Its strength, earthy notes and tender acidity are sure to be a hit with red meats, game or, for example, an ostrich steak. Like all peppers, Penja black pepper is known for its ability to enhance the flavour and taste of just about anything it is used on, reinforcing the infinite possibilities of its use. Penja pepper and health Like all black peppers, Penja pepper is an excellent antioxidant with digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with other spices, pepper acts as a catalyst for the active ingredients of the latter. The action of pepper's piperine is known to enhance the effectiveness of curcumin in turmeric, for example.
