We reveal the Mondulkiri pepper
MONDULKIRI PEPPER: AN IMMERSION INTO A NEW CAMBODIAN TERROIR
The Mondulkiri region, located in eastern Cambodia, is renowned for its rolling landscapes and rich biodiversity. Characterised by its lush hills and forests, and a cooler climate compared to the rest of the country, it is often referred to as the Switzerland of Cambodia.
At the heart of this region, local communities have preserved the ancient traditions of pepper cultivation, thriving in an exceptionally rich terroir. We ventured out in search of the finest pepper growers, committed to organic farming practices, using only natural fertilisers and pesticides.
THE UNIQUE TERROIR OF MONDULKIRI
Mondulkiri is known for its ethnic minority communities, who enrich the cultural tapestry of the region while preserving age-old farming techniques, such as pepper cultivation—the jewel of this unique terroir. The powerful and distinctive aromas of Mondulkiri pepper make it one of the most remarkable peppers available.
Less known than the famous Kampot pepper, which boasts a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), Mondulkiri pepper is equally outstanding. It offers a distinct, robust, and nuanced aromatic profile, making it a favourite among connoisseurs. Each peppercorn bursts with flavour, reflecting the characteristics of the soil and the milder climate, making this pepper truly singular.
MONDULKIRI PEPPER: FAIR TRADE AND SHORT SUPPLY CHAINS
In the verdant, hilly region of Mondulkiri, an unexpected encounter reshaped our perception of pepper. Drawing on our experience with family farms in the Kampot region, where our cooperative supports producers by offering premium prices and fair working conditions through Fair Trade contracts, we decided to extend our mission to lesser-known regions. This led us to discover Mondolkiri pepper, now available to you through short supply chains.
DISCOVERING NEW FLAVOURS IN MONDULKIRI
On our quest for new flavours, we met a respected pepper farmer in this rural, almost timeless region. His passion for his work and dedication to quality immediately resonated with us, revealing his family’s unique expertise and the hidden treasure of this authentic region: Mondulkiri peppercorns.
This local producer shared with us how his family has cultivated this pepper using natural and artisanal methods for generations. Each peppercorn is carefully selected, dried, and hand-sorted. The secret of this pepper lies in the rich soil and the gentle climate of Mondulkiri’s misty hills, which impart powerful, nuanced aromas with less pungency than most peppers of this quality, allowing you to savour each bite without overpowering your dishes.
This encounter not only unearthed an exceptional pepper but also underscored the importance of preserving these traditions and perpetuating unique expertise, while offering farmers an opportunity for recognition and economic development.
THE UNIQUE FLAVOURS OF MONDULKIRI PEPPER
Every peppercorn is a burst of flavour, reflecting the unique characteristics of the soil and the milder climate of this singular pepper.
We are delighted to introduce you to these exceptional peppercorns, available in three varieties: black, red, and white.