Not All "Peppers" Are Actually Peppers!

If you're browsing the grocery store or checking out the spicy Chai selection, you might notice a variety of peppers on the shelves: hot peppers, sweet peppers, smoked peppers, chili peppers, peppercorns-

Except, peppercorns aren't actually peppers!

The Difference Between Peppers and Peppercorns

What we commonly refer to as "peppers" belong to the Capsicum family, also known as nightshades. Despite the intimidating name, these plants are neither poisonous nor nocturnal-they require sunlight like other plants. You're probably picturing colorful, curvaceous veggies with bright flavors and a spicy kick.

However, peppercorns are an entirely different species. They are actually berries from the Piperaceae) family-no shade intended!

The Fascinating History of Peppercorns

Peppercorns come in different varieties, such as white, green, or black, depending on their ripeness and how they're processed. Some blends, like Adagio's White Chai, even feature red peppercorns from a different cultivar. These peppercorns have a pungent, earthy, slightly acidic, and faintly bitter taste, making them a perfect complement to stronger flavors. Their distinct bite comes from the chemical compound piperine, which is responsible for both their flavor and potency.

Learn more from Selefina's spice primer on peppercorns.

The Benefits of Piperine

Piperine is so synergistic with other spices that black peppercorns are a staple in many Ayurvedic blends.

Research shows that it can boost the effectiveness of additives like turmeric. Its no wonder that black pepper is a staple at the dinner tableit pairs well with everything! Traditional Chinese Medicine also credits black pepper with various benefits, including digestive support, immune system boosts, and the ability to warm the body.

Try White Chai for a Subtle Start

If you're ready to explore, start with White Chai. It's an ideal "starter" chai, perfect for those just beginning to train their palate to detect subtle flavors.

The white tea base is complemented by red peppercorn, lemongrass, coconut, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and sweet apple and pineapple pieces.

Steep this blend gently with under-boiling water-195 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal-and steep it for no more than three minutes to allow its complexity to shine. For precision, consider using a variable temperature kettle.

Ready for More Spice? Try Double Ginger

Once you're ready for more heat, we recommend Double Ginger.

This blend features ginger, green rooibos tea, red and black peppercorns, orange, marigold flowers, and strawberries. The combination of ginger and two types of peppercorns delivers a bold, spicy experience, balanced by the smoothness of rooibos and marigold.

The strawberries add a delightful sweetness that may make you pause before reaching for honey-but if you do need some, Adagio Bee's honey pairs perfectly!

You can steep this tea in boiling water (212 degrees Fahrenheit) for five minutes or longer for a warming experience.

For Heat Lovers: Try Tri-Pepper Chai

If you're craving a serious kick, you wont want to miss Tri-Pepper Chai. This bold blend is a spicy powerhouse, combining the heat of black peppercorn, red peppercorn, and fiery chili flakes with the warm, comforting flavors of classic masala chai spices.

The full-bodied Sri Lankan black tea base is complemented by sweet cinnamon, zesty ginger, cloves, and aromatic cardamom pods, creating a perfect balance of heat and flavor. If you like your chai with a bit of bite, Tri-Pepper Chai will definitely keep you warm and satisfied!

Ready to Spice it Up Now?

Whether you're discovering the world of peppers or enjoying the versatility of peppercorns in tea blends, understanding the differences between these spices opens up a whole new world of flavors, wellness benefits, and culinary possibilities.