Madagascar Pink Peppercorns: Origin, Flavor, and Culinary Uses

The pink berries are the fruits of several species of shrubs of the genus Schinus which are used as spices.

Pink Bay grows on Reunion Island, South America, Florida, Madagascar, New Caledonia and Brazil. The best quality is called Calibre A+ and the berries are then homogeneous and fully mature. Only 5% of the harvest meets this specific calibre, intended for great chefs. The world’s main producers are Brazil and Madagascar (Sources : Wikipédia) 

The pink berry has a powerful but not pungent fragrance. Its flavor is sweet, sweet, peppery and aniseed. It can be eaten raw or cooked.

In addition to being decorative, it goes perfectly with fish, shellfish, white meats, raw meats (tartars, carpaccios) as well as chocolate-based desserts.

📌Too much pink berries are indigestible and can be toxic. A dozen grains per dish is enough.

Characteristics of Pink Peppercorns

• Bright pink colour;

• Taste delicately peppery, fruity and slightly sweet (not spicy);

• Sweet and aniseed fragrance;

• Heat sensitive because they contain essential oils that evaporate rapidly;

• Light, soft and hollow.

We don’t recommend using a pepper mill for pink peppercorns. Use a mortar and pestle instead, or simply crush them by hand.

To accompany all kinds of dishes

Pink peppercorns are as good for savoury as sweet dishes. They make simple recipes for meals worthy of the greatest occasions! Here are some suggestions:

Pink Berries in sweet and savory dishes

• Strawberry-pink berry compote – Simmer strawberries with a pinch of crushed pink berries and a splash of maple syrup for a fragrant topping on pancakes or yogurt.
  
  

• Pink berry butter for steaks or vegetables – Mix softened butter with crushed pink berries, garlic, and sea salt for a bold finishing touch on grilled meats or roasted veggies.
  
  

• Goat cheese & pink berry tartlets – Top puff pastry with creamy goat cheese, a drizzle of honey, and crushed pink berries for a unique appetizer balancing sweet and savory.
  
  

• Vegan pink berry and avocado toast – Spread mashed avocado on toasted sourdough, then top with a sprinkle of crushed pink berries, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of chili flakes for a refreshing yet spicy twist.Pink Berry Marinade.
  
  

• Citrus & pink berry marinade for fish – Blend crushed pink berries with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs for a zesty marinade that enhances salmon, cod, or shrimp.
  
  

• Honey-pink berry glaze for grilled chicken – Mix honey, crushed pink berries, soy sauce, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a sweet-savory glaze perfect for poultry.
  
  

• Pink berry & yogurt marinade for lamb or tofu – Combine Greek yogurt, pink berries, cumin, and garlic for a creamy, tenderizing marinade ideal for meat or plant-based options.Creative Garnishing Tips for Cocktails & Desserts.
  
  

• Crushed pink berries rim for cocktails – Add a sweet-spicy twist to margaritas or gin-based drinks by rimming the glass with a mix of crushed pink berries and sugar.
  
  

• Pink berry infused whipped cream – Gently crush and infuse pink berries into whipped cream for an elegant topping on chocolate mousse, panna cotta, or fruit tarts.
  
  

Il est toujours préférable de l'ajouter en fin de cuisson pour garder son goût.

Health benefits of pink peppercorns

In addition to being decorative and tasty, pink berries have several medicinal properties:

• Anti-inflammatory properties

• Antiseptic and antibacterial properties

• Antispasmodic properties

• Relief of rheumatic and joint pain

• Helps clean the respiratory tract and digestive disorders

• Vasoconstrictive virtues

• Effective in combating certain tropical infectious diseases

Pink Peppercorn Storage

Ideally, pink peppercorns should be stored in airtight containers, away from light, moisture, and heat. Whole peppercorns keep better and for longer. Generally, there is no strict expiration date for pink peppercorns, but we recommend an optimal shelf life of 2 years from the time the bag is opened.

Pink peppercorn recipe ideas

MATANA provides you with recipe ideas using the products we sell. Discover our recipe suggestions here.

Where can you find pink peppercorns?

MATANA is a Quebec-based company that markets products sourced from Madagascar. It sells high-quality pink peppercorns harvested from wild farming, without fertilizers. These products are carefully hand-sorted by professional, experienced workers.

Pink peppercorns are available in our online store or at our various partner retail locations.

Would you like to give it a try?

Discover pink peppercorns: a delicate spice with subtly peppery, slightly sweet notes—perfect for enhancing your dishes, sauces, and desserts. Add a refined, fragrant touch to your cooking—an absolute must-try..

Discover pink peppercorns

Who is Matana?

MATANA markets 100% natural, authentic products from Madagascar for food processors and individual consumers. Its main goal is to raise awareness of Madagascar through its endemic and exceptional products. Its products are high quality and offer remarkable health benefits.

MATANA imports vanilla, spices, and products from Madagascar directly from local producers. The company donates a portion of its profits to help improve the living conditions of local Malagasy farmers.