Black Ratanakiri Pepper

Ratanakiri black pepper is a rare spice grown in the mountainous region of Ratanakiri, in north-eastern Cambodia.

This unique pepper benefits from ideal natural conditions: high altitude, tropical humidity, and small-scale farming practices.

Many local farmers rely on traditional and sustainable methods, sometimes organic or fair trade, ensuring an authentic product.

Unlike the famous Kampot pepper, Ratanakiri black pepper offers a more intense yet slightly less woody profile than the smoked version, with remarkable elegance on the palate.

This makes it an excellent alternative for pepper lovers looking for rare and distinctive flavours.

This pepper reveals a complex aroma: fruity, spicy, with subtle floral and woody notes. Its heat is moderate, which allows it to enhance dishes without overpowering them.

Well-balanced and long-lasting on the palate, it brings refinement and finesse to both everyday cooking and gourmet creations.

Cambodian black pepper adapts easily to many recipes.

• It enhances winter dishes, soups, sauces, and hearty meals.

• Perfect with roasted vegetables, Mediterranean recipes, or Oriental cuisine.

• Delicious on red meats for depth of flavour.

• Pairs beautifully with fatty fish such as tuna or mackerel, creating a striking contrast.

For best results, crush it with a mortar or grind it in a pepper mill just before serving. A light touch is enough: about half a teaspoon for a dish serving 4 people.

Recommended dose

1–2 turns of the mill are sufficient for 2 to 4 servings. Thanks to its balanced profile, Ratanakiri pepper elevates a dish without masking other flavours.

• Lamb or chicken tagine with dried fruits

• Cod fillet in pepper and sea salt crust

• Creamy parsnip velouté

• Seared tuna tataki with a Cambodian twist

• Spicy carbonara pasta

• Honey-glazed duck breast with pepper

• Gourmet pork tenderloin burger

• Shakshuka with black pepper

• Mango chutney or onion compote with goat cheese

Like other black peppers, Ratanakiri pepper is naturally rich in piperine. It offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and digestive properties.

It also supports nutrient absorption — for example, when combined with turmeric, it helps the body absorb curcumin more effectively.

Does Ratanakiri pepper have a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication)? No. Unlike Kampot pepper, Ratanakiri black pepper is not yet PGI-certified. However, its artisanal quality, traceability, and sustainable farming methods make it an exceptional spice.

What can I use instead of Ratanakiri black pepper?

• Kampot black pepper: stronger, more woody

• Mondulkiri black pepper: milder, with floral notes

How should I store Ratanakiri black pepper? Keep it in an airtight jar, away from heat, humidity, and direct sunlight. Proper storage preserves its aromas for months.

Where can I buy Ratanakiri black pepper? You can order directly from our website. At La Plantation, we work closely with Cambodian farmers to guarantee fair trade, traceability, and authentic quality.