Pepper facts for kids

Peppers are a fascinating group of plants, but did you know that the word "pepper" can actually mean very different things? It's a bit like how the word "bat" can be an animal or a piece of sports equipment! When we talk about peppers, we're often thinking about two main types: the spicy ones used in cooking, and the black powder we sprinkle on food. Let's explore the different plants that share this name.

What Are Peppers?

The word "pepper" is used for several plants that aren't closely related. This can be confusing! It's important to know which "pepper" you are talking about. These plants come from different plant families and have different uses.

The Piper Genus: Black Pepper

When you hear "pepper" and think of the spice on your dinner table, you're probably thinking of Black pepper. This comes from a plant in the Piper genus.

Where Does Black Pepper Come From?

Black pepper comes from the plant Piper nigrum. This plant is a flowering vine. It is grown for its fruit, which is called a peppercorn. These peppercorns are dried and used as a spice. They are one of the most common spices in the world.

How Black Pepper Is Used

Black pepper is used to add flavor to many dishes. It can be ground fresh from a pepper mill. It adds a sharp, slightly spicy taste. It's often paired with salt.

The Capsicum Genus: Chili Peppers

Another very common type of "pepper" comes from the Capsicum genus. These are the peppers you might eat as a vegetable. They can be sweet or very spicy!

Types of Chili Peppers

The Capsicum genus includes many well-known peppers. These are often called Chili peppers. Some are mild, like bell peppers. Others are very hot, like jalapeños or habaneros. The heat comes from a chemical called capsaicin.

How Chili Peppers Are Used

Chili peppers are used in cooking all over the world. They can be eaten fresh, cooked, dried, or powdered. They add flavor, color, and often a lot of heat to meals. Bell peppers are great in salads or stir-fries. Hot peppers are used in spicy sauces and dishes.

Other Interesting "Peppers"

Beyond the two main types, there are other plants also called "pepper." They are unique and used in different ways.

Sichuan Pepper

Sichuan pepper is a spice used in Chinese cooking. It is not related to black pepper or chili peppers. It creates a unique tingling and numbing feeling in your mouth. This feeling is called "mala." It is a key flavor in Sichuan cuisine.

Brazilian Pepper

The Brazilian pepper is a shrub native to South America. It is often grown as an ornamental plant. Its bright red berries are sometimes sold as "pink peppercorns." However, these berries can be poisonous if eaten in large amounts. It's important not to confuse them with true peppercorns.

Tasmanian Pepper

Tasmanian pepper, also known as Mountain pepper, is an evergreen plant. It grows in Australia and New Zealand. Its leaves and berries are used as a spice. They have a strong, peppery flavor.

Ukrainian Red Midget

The Ukrainian Red Midget is a type of Capsicum pepper. It produces small, hot peppers. These are sometimes called Thai Hot peppers. They are known for their strong heat and are used in spicy dishes.

Conclusion

As you can see, the word "pepper" is used for many different plants. Some are spices, some are vegetables, and some are ornamental plants. Each one has its own unique story and use!