21/05/2024
FORGOTTEN INGREDIENTS: JAVANESE LONG PEPPER
The Javanese long pepper, botanically known as Piper Retrofractum, is a distinctive spice with a rich and intricate flavour profile. Prior to the arrival of chillies into the region, this was the heat agent of choice and delivers a robust, earthy, and subtly sweet taste, with notes of cinnamon and cardamom.
This spice imparts depth and warmth to dishes and is frequently utilised in Nusantara cuisine, particularly in Indonesian culinary creations. It enhances soups, stews, and marinades, or is ground into spice blends for seasoning meats and vegetables. Despite its historical significance, the Javanese long pepper has become a somewhat overlooked ancient ingredient. Once a staple in traditional Asian medicine and cooking, its use has waned over time, particularly in comparison to its more prevalent counterpart, black pepper.
We source our Javanese long pepper directly from Java, Indonesia and incorporate this exceptional spice into various dishes. Among them are our Beef Rendang Hijau and our gulai paste blends. The unique peppery heat from this pepper emerges subtly from the back palate, providing a well-rounded heat element.