Verbena Pepper (Litsea cubeba)

Verbena Pepper, also known as Ma Khaen pepper, comes from the Litsea cubeba tree — a member of the laurel family that can grow up to 12 metres tall, making hand-harvesting a delicate task. It grows along the Annamite Range, which stretches across Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Chefs value this spice for its citrus and verbena-like aroma, which gives it its name.

It is a small round berry with a thin skin, usually picked by hand. While not from the Piper nigrum family, it belongs to the group of “false peppers”, just like Wild Forest Pepper. Unlike traditional pepper, Verbena Pepper has no heat but delivers a pleasant woody bitterness with slight resinous notes.

This spice is appreciated for its aromatic strength and ability to add a fresh, exotic twist to many recipes. Its intense fragrance stands out for both its freshness and complexity.

It’s also used in traditional Chinese medicine and herbal remedies, particularly for its anti-inflammatory properties. It may help relieve sore throats and joint pain.

Verbena Pepper offers a unique, vibrant flavour that awakens the senses. Its profile starts with a bright lemony freshness, similar to lemon verbena. This is followed by delicate floral tones and a soft, peppery finish that adds elegance without intensity.

Some compare it to Timut Pepper, though it is less spicy and more fragrant. This balance of cool and warm notes makes it a prized ingredient for subtle, creative seasoning.

Verbena Pepper shines when used thoughtfully. It’s ideal for pairing with:

• Asian-style dishes
• Steamed fish
• Crunchy stir-fried vegetables
• Fresh fruit-based desserts

Recipe ideas with Verbena Pepper

• Stir-fried vegetables with Verbena Pepper: Sauté broccoli, carrots and snow peas in sesame oil. Add 5 crushed Verbena Peppercorns and a pinch of turmeric powder for an aromatic boost.

• Plum compote with galangal and Verbena Pepper: Galangal’s spicy citrus notes blend beautifully with Verbena Pepper’s freshness in this exotic compote.

• Grilled langoustines with lemon-verbena butter: A refined seafood dish with bright, floral notes.

• Sea bream papillote with Verbena Pepper and fresh coriander: Light and flavourful, perfect for delicate fish dishes.

• Healthy breakfast bowl: Plain yoghurt, muesli, berries and a sprinkle of Verbena Pepper for a fresh kick.

• Citrus tart with Verbena Pepper: The perfect match of tartness and floral warmth.

Litsea cubeba thrives in warm, humid climates. It is grown using traditional, eco-friendly methods, and harvested when the berries reach full maturity for maximum flavour.

To preserve its full aroma, store Verbena Pepper in a dry, dark place in an airtight container. Proper storage ensures it keeps its flavour and potency for months. Because its taste is so intense, a small amount is enough.

To release its aromatic oils, crush it gently in a mortar or grind it before use. You can also infuse it in sauces or marinades. It’s a perfect alternative to black pepper when you want a lighter, citrusy twist.

This spice is also popular in creative cooking. It adds an elegant floral note to creams, syrups, jams, or preserves.