Kampong Thom black pepper

Kampong Thom black pepper is a Cambodian pepper grown in the fertile lands of the Kampong Thom province, in the heart of the country.
The region enjoys a humid tropical climate, ideal for producing high-quality pepper with rich aromatic oils.

Producers follow traditional methods:

• manual harvesting

• natural sun-drying

• slow moisture reduction to preserve flavour

This careful process enhances the pepper’s essential oils and deepens its aroma.

Kampong Thom black pepper has a warm, rounded and enveloping profile. Its grains are dark with glossy brown highlights, dense and crisp under the tooth is generally a sign of superior quality.

It differs from our other varieties, such as fermented pepper or smoked pepper, by its soft warmth and balsamic notes.

Difference between Kampong Thom Pepper and Kampot Pepper

Kampong Thom black pepper is softer, woodier and more balsamic.
It warms the palate without aggression. Its heat is gentle but persistent, making it ideal for delicate dishes and subtle ingredients.

Kampot Pepper is more famous and more intense.
It is spicier, more mineral and sharper, suited to dishes that require a stronger pepper with structure.

Usage recommendations:

• Kampong Thom pepper is fine cooking, fish, vegetables, cheeses, desserts.

• Kampot pepper is strong meats, rich sauces, spicy dishes.

Kampong Thom black pepper reveals its full aroma when crushed or freshly ground. Add it at the end of cooking to preserve its fragrance.

Food pairing ideas

• Starters: Beef tartare, olive-oil bruschetta, warm goat cheese toast, country terrine. Its warm and woody profile gives structure without overpowering.

• Fish & Seafood: Smoked salmon, seared tuna, pan-fried scallops with butter. It enhances delicate textures with finesse.

• Meat: Rib-eye steak, duck breast, hare stew, duck confit, various stuffing mixes. It adds depth to tender or slow-cooked meats.

• Vegetables: Potato or parsnip purée, dauphinois gratin, sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables (carrot, turnip, Brussels sprouts, endive), stuffed tomatoes. It brings warmth and richness.

• Cheese: Fresh cheeses with olive oil, feta, ricotta, goat cheese, burrata or stracciatella. It creates a pleasant aromatic contrast.

Store the black pepper in a cool, dry place away from light. Keep the container tightly sealed to maintain aroma. For culinary use only.