Mondulkiri red pepper

Mondolkiri Pepper, originating from the eastern Cambodian region of the same name, is an underappreciated spice beginning to make a name for itself alongside the renowned Kampot Pepper. While Kampot benefits from Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, Mondolkiri Pepper stands out with its own unique characteristics. It boasts powerful and nuanced aromas that rival those of its famous cousin.

This pepper offers a distinctive aromatic profile, less known but equally remarkable. Its traditional cultivation by local communities, along with organic and fair trade certifications, makes it an appealing choice for spice enthusiasts seeking new flavours while supporting sustainable practices.

Mondolkiri red pepper is characterised by a colour spectrum ranging from orange to reddish-brown, with some grains showing burgundy hues.

• On the nose, Mondolkiri red pepper is round and smooth, reminiscent of sweet paprika and sun-dried tomatoes, with a slight resinous touch evoking yew.
• On the palate, its resinous aroma is immediately evident, with pronounced notes of turpentine, akin to pink peppercorn.

This is followed by more delicate flavours of candied citrus zest, with a subtle sweetness reminiscent of certain exotic fruits. This red pepper from Mondolkiri is both gourmet and moderately spicy, offering a pleasant lingering taste with a vegetal sensation of peppermint.

Similar to its counterpart, red Kampot pepper, Mondolkiri Pepper offers numerous health benefits due to its many properties:

• Antioxidant properties: It may help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
• Digestive improvement: It could stimulate the production of gastric juices, promoting more efficient digestion and potentially relieving digestive disorders.
• Anti-Inflammatory effect: Its active compounds may help reduce inflammation, providing possible relief from joint and muscle pain.
• Antibacterial properties: Its antimicrobial qualities might assist in fighting certain bacterial infections and boosting the immune system.

Mondolkiri Red Pepper adds a unique dimension to your dishes with its fruity and spicy aromas. It particularly enhances cream-based sauces, whether accompanying white meats or poultry, by bringing a remarkable depth of flavour. This pepper is also excellent for elevating fish or white meat carpaccios and tartares, offering a subtly fruity touch.

It pairs wonderfully with fatty fish such as salmon, trout, tuna, mackerel, and sardines, as well as various shellfish, accentuating their natural richness. Add it to your cream-based pasta or a risotto for a hint of spicy elegance. However, it’s best to avoid combining it with acidic ingredients to preserve its delicate aromatic profile.

In pastry, Mondolkiri Red Pepper can pleasantly surprise in exotic fruit salads, adding a fascinating spicy note. It also pairs well with desserts like vanilla ice cream or exotic fruit sorbets, offering a subtle complexity that enriches the sweet and fruity taste.

To ensure the longevity of Mondolkiri Red Pepper, store it in a cool, dry, and dark place, preferably in an airtight container like our kraft tube. If you’ve ordered a different format, transfer the contents into our kraft tube or a jar of your choice. This container will protect the grains from moisture and contaminants while preserving their fruity aromas.

If you store your Mondolkiri Red Pepper outside of a cupboard or drawer, avoid glass jars that allow light to pass through. Ensure the container is always tightly sealed after each use to prevent exposure to air, which could alter its flavours.

Additionally, it is recommended to grind the grains of Mondolkiri Red Pepper, and all exceptional peppers, just before use to retain the full complexity of their aromas and prevent the loss of freshness.