Wild Madagascar Pepper , also known as Voatsiperifery Pepper , is much more than just a spice. It is a gastronomic treasure from the fruit of Piper borbonense , a species of the Piperaceae family , which thrives in the wild in the heart of the lush forests of Madagascar . This tropical island, bathed in sunshine, is the cradle of this exceptional pepper.
A Wild Treasure opened by nature
It is at the top of majestic trees, sometimes reaching up to 20 meters in height, that the Wild Madagascar Pepper takes shape. Its harvest is a true human feat, requiring the courage of the Malagasy pickers who brave the heights to pick the precious berries by hand. An age-old tradition that shapes this unique pepper, but also a risky practice for the Malagasy ecosystem, by endangering certain species, including wild pepper itself. We made an article on our blog about wild pepper which grows on vines and which can easily be cut. As with black pepper , wild pepper grows on a vine. It does not have the best producers in Madagascar, because the harvest,
Peak Pepper
The rarity of Wild Madagascar Pepper makes it a culinary gem, even on this paradise island. This is why it bears the evocative nickname “Pepper of the Peaks”. Visually, it is distinguished by its small brown and reddish berries, barely larger than the head of a pin, accompanied by their thin stems. Then after drying you have this magnificent color. But pepper is very small, pepper that grows in the wild is very, very rare.
Similarities and Distinctions
At first glance, Voatsiperifery Pepper can be confused with other varieties. It shares a resemblance with the cubeb pepper , also, the pepper is also known as the tailed pepper , although their flavors are distinct. Voatsiperifery grains are smaller, but their tails are longer, subtly differentiating them.
It can also be confused with Likouala Pepper, a variety of Piper Guineense, which, although having a similar appearance to cubeb, shares a flavor close to Wild Pepper and can even substitute it in recipes.
An Evocative Name that makes the senses dream
The name "Voatsiperifery" has its origins in Malagasy. “Voa” means “fruit,” while “tsiperifery” refers to the Piper Borbonense vine in Malagasy. Its other name, “Pepper of the Peaks,” reflects its semi-wild cultivation method. This is why, in a bag of Wild Pepper, you can often discover different degrees of maturity, ranging from green to black and red, even if the majority of the grains are black.
Wild Madagascar Pepper is much more than a spice, it is a treasure of nature, a tribute to the island that shelters it, and an invitation to an unforgettable taste experience. Discover this masterpiece of Malagasy biodiversity and elevate your dishes to new heights. We advise you to also discover our Madagascar cinnamon. Spices from Madagascar are unique.