Substitutes for Black Pepper: 12 Best Alternatives + FAQs!

One of the most widely used spices is black pepper. As a result, it can be found in practically every grocery shop and on almost every dinner table.

The intense flavors of this spicy spice are well-known most of the time. As a result, black pepper is used in many dishes! Furthermore, it is well-known for its scent.

But what if you’re making a particular dish and find you don’t have any black pepper on hand? So, we’ve come up with a few options for you.

Please continue reading to learn more about them!

Substitutes for Black Pepper

As previously said, black pepper is used in many recipes. As a result, if you don’t have it, your food could not taste as well as it could.

Instead of black pepper, you can prevent this problem by using one of the following replacements.

No.1 Peppercorns (white)

White and black peppercorns are little dry berries that come from the same piper nigrum pepper plant. The time when individuals collect and process pepper determines the difference between the two types.

Black pepper is made from ripe berries that are picked before they ripen. The berries are then cooked and dried, causing them to turn black. White pepper, on the other hand, comes from fully developed berries.

White pepper has a flavor that is essentially identical to black pepper, but it is a little milder. When you use white pepper instead of black pepper, you get the same flavor but without the heat or the dark color.

So, if you’re making a creamy soup and don’t want to sacrifice the dish’s aesthetic by using black powder, white pepper is an option.

No.2 Green Pepper

Unripe berries are used to make this pepper, just as the black pepper. Using compounds like sulfur dioxide, they are treated in a way that helps them keep their green hue.

Green pepper has a vibrant scent and a spicy and fresh flavor. In addition, they have a milder flavor than black pepper.

They are commonly used in Thai cuisine, primarily to improve the flavor of poultry and fruits. They’re a little tangier than the black ones.

No.3 Pink Pepper

Cashews are a type of nut. The Peruvian pepper tree, Schinus Molle, produces pink peppers. It’s the dried fruit of the paper tree, which is indigenous to South America.

They’re made from a different plant than black pepper, but they have a comparable flavor. They have a sweet-resinous scent as well. They are, however, a tad gentler.

The fruitiness of these pink peppercorns is preferred by many individuals over the raw, harsh bite of black pepper. It’s also used in risotto, meats, wines, and bakeries, among other things.

No.4 Seeds of Papaya

These lovely gems tucked away inside the papaya are a natural substitute for black pepper! Many people toss papaya seeds, but after reading this, you’ll probably never do so again.

It’s simple to substitute papaya seeds for black pepper. This is what you must do:

• Remove the seeds from your papaya by slicing them in half and scooping them out.
• The seeds should then be allowed to dry or placed inside a towel and rubbed inside the fabric.
• Finally, put the seeds out on a baking tray and bake them at a temperature that causes them to shatter when crushed.
• You may use these in place of black pepper once they’re done!

No.5 Capsicums

Capers are green peppercorns that come from the Capparis shrub, which is primarily found in the Mediterranean. Whether brined or dried, Capers provide much flavor to the cuisine they’re added to.

Furthermore, they improve the texture of foods such as fish dishes, pasta, stews, and so on—almost any recipe benefits from the pungent sour and salty flavor of these tiny green buds.

As a result, most people utilize them as condiments and dressings. You can also use them in black pepper if you don’t mind a sour taste.

No.6 Peppercorns from Sichuan

This is a Chinese spice that is often used in Sichuan cuisine. Because it contains hydroxy-alpha compounds, it produces a tingling and numbing effect.

This peppercorn has a strong, pungent flavor. So, if you’re looking for a black pepper alternative that will give your food a unique twist, this is it!

No.7 Coriander Seeds

The seeds of coriander are from the parsley family.

When cooked, they are usually black, both whole and ground. They are also commonly used in Latin-American dishes to give spice and a hint of citrus taste.

Even though they are not peppercorns, they are a fantastic substitute for black pepper. It’s worth noting that using ground coriander seeds will give your food a sweet and spicy flavor.

No.8 Paprika or medium chili powder

This product is created from red peppers and is also known as paprika. It comes in two different languages: Hungarian and Spanish. Depending on what’s available, you can pick any.

When it comes to flavor, paprika is on the hotter side. It also gives a splash of color to any dish. It also comes in various flavors, including hot, smoked, and sweet.

It’s also worth noting that paprika provides several health benefits. Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Vitamin B6 are just a few of the vitamins and minerals it provides.

When you add color, heat, smokiness, and spice to a dish, sprinkle paprika on top. It can add more spice to meats, seafood, and other foods, among other things.

No.9 Ginger powder

Ground ginger is frequently used in Thai cooking. It’s also one of the essential components in various Indian and Chinese recipes.

It has a pretty close flavor to white pepper, which is good. As a result, it has a sweet, peppery, flowery, and citrus flavor. As a result, it can be used as a black pepper alternative.

Ground ginger pairs well with various foods, including gingerbread, pumpkin pie, spice cookies, and, surprise, ice cream.

No.10 Cayenne pepper

Cayenne comes from the Tupi word cayenne, which means pepper in English. This pepper can be found in various Caribbean, Creole, and Cajun foods.

Cayenne peppers, like jalapeño and other peppers, are closely related. In addition, they aid in the treatment of circulation issues! Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic remedies are also made with them.

These peppers have a spicy flavor and much heat to them. As a result, use a small amount of it. Cayenne pepper can also be used in cooking in either powdered or whole form.

No.11 Allspice berries

Allspice is composed of dried berries from the Pimenta dioica plant, a member of the Myrtle family. It’s a common ingredient in the Caribbean and Middle Eastern cuisines.

You might assume it’s a blend based on the name, but allspice is a single spice made out of dried berries harvested from allspice trees. They have a peppercorn-like appearance. As a result, they have a similar appearance.

The flavor of this spice is a combination of cinnamon, pepper, and nutmeg. As a result, your food will have a distinct flavor combination.

You can use it to flavor pastries, beverages like mulled wine, and side dishes, among other things.

No.12 Mustard powder

Ground mustard, often known as mustard flour or powdered mustard, is an excellent black pepper replacement. It is prepared by grinding mustard seeds and sifting off the seed coat to obtain suitable ground mustard.

When ground mustard is steeped in liquid, it develops a flavor. You’ll also notice that it has a strong odor. Ground mustard can be used to season salads or give an acidic component to sauces.

Associated Issues

Is it possible to use white pepper instead of black pepper?

Yes! White pepper can be used in place of black pepper.

Both are made from dried pepper berries harvested from the same pepper plant. White pepper is less pungent than fresh ground black pepper, which is spicy, fragrant, and pungent.

If your recipe only calls for a fair bit of pepper, white pepper can be substituted. However, if a large amount is required, you should keep the amount specified in the recipe.

What can I use instead of peppercorns?

Papaya seeds are a decent substitute for peppercorns. They have a similar texture and a harsh odor. You can also add allspice, cayenne pepper, or chili powder to the mix.

In a recipe, what does black pepper do?

Black pepper imparts flavor and heat to the dishes to which it is introduced. To achieve a pleasant flavor, add black pepper to any dish before removing it from the fire.

Is it possible to use black pepper instead of pink pepper?

Yes, black peppers can be used instead of pink peppers.

Even though they come from two different plants, they have a remarkably similar flavor. As a result, you can use them interchangeably.