Black Phu Quoc Pepper 越南富國島辣椒 Terre Exotique

The island of Phu Quoc is called the "Emerald Island" as it harbours many natural treasures. It is located in the Golf of Thailand, off the coast of Cambodia. The island has been part of Vietnam since 1945.

Pepper cultivation was introduced in the 18th century by the Chinese. Nowadays, the pepper production on the island is very select with very small quantities produced. In Phu Quoc, only 1.5 tonne/hectare are produced vs. 8 to 10 tonnes/hectare in other regions of Vietnam, like the region of Daklak for example. On the island, all production stages are entirely done by hand: harvesting, retting, washing, drying and sorting. Most of the pepper plantations are in Cua Duang, in the centre of the island. The pepper is harvested from February to April. The inhabitants of Phu Quoc island call the pepper "Tiêu". They eat it with sea food and fish. They grind it with salt and then add lime. They use it for seasoning all their local dishes.

An ardent pepper !

Phu Quoc black pepper is picked by hand before fully ripened then dried in the sun. With scents of leather and wild, yet sugary notes, it will delight your pan-fried foie gras, red meat in wine sauce, roast poultry and vegetable gratins.

Best ground with a pestle and mortar.