As someone who likes spicy food, for a long time I thought of black pepper as a second rate spice. It was ok, but not great; very common place and not as flavorful as different types of chilies. I may have to shamefully admit that I looked down on it a little.
In Thailand however, I encountered a dish that used whole peppercorns to spice the food. It was spicy and delicious. Afterwards I payed more attention to the use of pepper in food. Blackened chicken or catfish, salt and pepper prawns or asparagus. I learned that I hadn’t been thinking of pepper correctly because the method of adding it to a dish with the typical amounts being used weren’t sufficient to my liking. I began to use it more in my cooking and think about it more when ordering food.
I just had some nachos for lunch. Black beans, pickled onions, crema, guacamole, olives, cheese, and jalapenos. I put a little hot sauce on them, then saw the pepper shaker sitting there, “Blackened Nachos!” I thought as I dowsed my food. It was delicious.
I have redefined my relationship with black pepper and given it the respect it deserves.
What are some relationships you’ve redefined?
What are some that could maybe use some redefining?