Uses of Pepper:
- Cooking: Bell peppers are used in salads, stir-fries, and soups, while chili peppers spice up sauces, curries, and salsas.
- Seasoning: Black pepper (from the Piper genus) is a common spice for seasoning meat, vegetables, and soups.
- Pickling: Pepper varieties can be pickled to enhance flavor and extend shelf life.
- Medicinal: Certain types, like chili peppers, are used in natural remedies for pain relief and boosting metabolism.
Benefits of Pepper:
- Rich in Vitamin C: Bell peppers are a great source of vitamin C, supporting immune health.
- Boosts Metabolism: Capsaicin in chili peppers can increase metabolism and promote fat burning.
- Antioxidant-Rich: Contains compounds like beta-carotene and flavonoids that protect cells from damage.
- Digestive Health: Black pepper aids digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes.
Characteristics:
- Bell peppers have a mild, sweet taste, while chili peppers can range from mild to very hot.
- Vibrant colors like green, red, yellow, and orange, with smooth, glossy skin.
- Black pepper is small, round, and dark with a pungent, spicy flavor when ground.
