The mountain pepper plant is used both ornamentally and in food preparation, and the tree produces two products: the berry and the leaf. The berries are dark-blue to black in colour and have a sweet, aromatic peppery taste. The leaves have strong antimicrobial activity against food spoilage organisms and can be used for cooking, preserving foods and medicinal purposes. The leaves, stems and berries produce approximately three times the antioxidants of blueberries.
Mountain pepper leaf is used in spice blends and baking products, and goes especially well with sauces, chutneys and condiments. Try adding it to your favourite potato dish. It adds a delicious peppery bite to pasta dough, savoury biscuits and bread, and can be added to curries, slow-cooked foods, cheeses and egg dishes, to enhance the flavour.
Mountain pepper leaf pairs well with dairy and dips, oil and vinegar-based meat marinades and salad dressings, meat-based sauces and egg-based condiments. The leaf complements fish, seafood, chicken, pork, lamb, beef and game meat, and pairs perfectly with most vegetables.
It lifts the profile of alcoholic beverages such as gin, vodka, white rum, Cointreau and tequila.