black pepper (मरिच)
About black pepper (मरिच)
Black pepper, locally known as *marich* in Nepali, is a common spice found in almost every Nepali household. It's a staple ingredient in many traditional Nepali dishes, adding a characteristic warmth and subtle heat. Due to its versatility, black pepper is an essential part of Nepali cuisine, used in both savory and (occasionally) sweet preparations, from dal bhat to momos and pickles. The flavor profile of black pepper enhances the taste of dishes and is a popular choice due to its health benefits as well as the taste. While not grown on a large scale commercially within Nepal, pepper is imported to fulfil the country's demand.
Nutritional info
These are the major micro nutrients found in black pepper
Seasonality
Black pepper is not typically grown commercially in Nepal due to the climate. Therefore, there isn't a specific seasonality for its availability here. Black pepper is generally available year-round as it is imported in dried form.
History
The history of black pepper in Nepal is largely tied to trade routes and cultural exchanges with India and other parts of Asia. While it's not native to Nepal, black pepper has been traded and used here for centuries. The spice arrived through historical trade routes, becoming an essential addition to the country's cuisine over time. Nepal, being a mountainous country with limited land suited for pepper cultivation, has relied on imports from India to meet the country's demand for black pepper.