Pink Peppercorns

Technically, pink peppercorns are not peppercorns. They are the dried berries from the Brazilian Peppertree, Schinus terebinthifolius and are sometimes called "baies rose de Bourbon". They consist of a bright cherry, papery outer skin, and a crunchy, black inner seed. They are sweet when raw, with a slight peppery aftertaste, and taste slightly more peppery when cooked.

Pink peppercorns taste delicious sprinkled into salad or crushed with other spices. There's even a recipe I've found (haven't tried it yet) for a pink peppercorn ice cream that gets rave reviews. I've enjoyed it crushed with brown sugar and other spices and pressed into the sides of roasts before cooking. Everyone loves it. It has enough complex flavor for those who like spicy foods, but enough mild sweetness for the more timid eater.

These delicious little berries are quite expensive, but they are very, very worth it.