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CUBEB pepper
CUBEB pepper
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What is Cubeb Pepper?
Cubeb pepper or in Latin, Piper cubeba, is a spice used to flavour food and beverages. It is from the Piperaceae family and classified as a pepper plant.
The cubeb pepper also goes by the name tailed pepper, because of the tapering end. cubeb berry is another title, to denote its berry like-shape.
Piper Cubeba Taste Profile
Cubeb pepper contains terpenes, or aromatic plant compounds, further divided into monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. This is the reason for the spice’s woody scent and taste.
Piper cubeba will first taste a bit spicy, followed by a bit bitter. Then, a clean almost eucalyptus flavour emerges, with a hint of citrus flavour. Many liken the taste of it to a cross between black pepper and all spice.
Cubeb Pepper vs Black Pepper
Cubeb pepper is not as hot as black pepper. In fact, it scores only a three out of ten in heat level. Black pepper contains a large amount of piperidines, a naturally occurring organic compound, which contains the alkaloid peperine, and gives off a peppery taste. While cubeb pepper does not contain this at all.
How to Store Cubeb Pepper
Store whole spice in a cool dry place for up to 3 years. If freshly ground, use within three to six months. Always ensure your spice is encased in a glass bottle, with a tight-fitting lid, like the ones from Salt’s Up! Then, store is a cool dry place, away from sunlight.
Find out More About this Little Berry
The Cubeb pepper has a colourful history and a unique growth pattern. How exactly is Cubeb pepper used in cooking? What are its health properties? Read on!
Historical Background of the Java Pepper
Java and other islands from Indonesia, have always been the primary source for this tailed pepper. To keep an economic hold on the prized Cubeb berry, farmers would sterilize seeds. This prevented the Java pepper seed from being stolen, and then planted in foreign soil.
The Ancient Greek writings of philosopher Theophrastus, who died in 287 BC, illustrate that not only were the Greeks trading with Java, but that the cubeb berry was being utilized.
The King of Portugal, wishing to create a strong trade bond with India, refused to import cubeb pepper from Java. Instead, the King only allowed the import of black pepper from his economic partner India.
Such embargos are sited as a reason for cubeb pepper’s decline in popularity, by the 16th century. It also explains why black pepper sits along salt-- in a salt and pepper shaker set!
How is Piper Cubeba Grown
The tree can grow up to 10 meters tall, preferring rich, humid soils. This tailed pepper, which once was exclusive to Indonesia, now is cultivated in India, the Lesser Antilles, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. The thick rubbery leaves of the tree are dark green, and at maturity are 15 centimetres in length.
When in bloom, the tree is festooned with white blossoms, and small berries of five millimetres in size. These tailed berries are slightly larger than a peppercorn. Picked just before ripe, when still green, these berries are left in the sunshine to dry. Once dried, the berries become wrinkled and black.
How to use the Cubeb Berry
Cubeb pepper can be used whole, crushed, or added in with other spices to create a homemade spice mix. In both Indonesia and Malaysia this tailed pepper is freshly ground and used to season dishes. There, it is the preferred pepper of choice over black pepper.
Today, the spice is being used more in gourmet restaurant, where professional chefs are trying to add new flavours, beyond traditional black pepper.
It is a fact! This pepper is also used in the manufacturing of gin and cigars.
The Varied Uses in Cooking
Cubeb pepper appears most frequently in the cuisines of North Africa and Asian. In Morocco, it adds a flavourful taste to tagines and a number of other recipes. In Asia, it often used as part of the spice in a curry.
In Australia, it is trendy for restaurant chefs to buy ingredients from the outback or tropical rainforest for tantalizing tastes. Cubeb pepper is popping up all over the continent for its exotic flavour.
Cubeb Pepper in European and North American Kitchens
Cubeb pepper in not yet a common ingredient in European and North American dishes.
Yet, ground cubeb pepper can enliven rice, and vegetables, as well as seafood, lamb, duck, and a wide variety of stews.
To make a vegetable, chicken, or beef stock, add six to eight whole cubeb berries to every litre of water. Once ready, strain out the cubeb peppers, along with the other ingredient in the stock.
In sweet applications, it pairs well with fruit and in the makeup of various ice creams, sorbets, and gelatos. Strain out the tailed berries before adding to the ice cream maker.
Cubeb pepper also works well in mulled wine over the winter months. Use a light red wine and heat with cinnamon sticks, orange slices and six cubeb berries per litre of wine. Bring to a simmer. Once wine is warmed throughout, strain through a sieve, before serving in mugs.
Savvy bakers have found that cubeb pepper replaces allspice in recipes in equal measures. Think gingerbread cookies and cakes, as well as other mixed spice desserts.
Adding Cubeb Pepper to the Spice Mix
The flavour of cubeb pepper blends well with bay leaf, cardamon, curry leaf, cinnamon, rosemary, sage, thyme, and turmeric.
In India, families are known to create their own spice blends, which include, the cubeb pepper, and pass these recipes down through the generations. The blend remains each family’s secret.
Ras el Hanout
In Morocco, Ras el Hanout is the most popular blend. It can be used in specialty dishes such as mrouzia, a sweet and spicey lamb dish or couscous tafya, with chicken or lamb. It can also finds its way into in any tagine or stew, using chicken meat or lamb. As well as a variety of soups.
To make this spice in your cupboard, you will need:
- 1 teaspoon cubeb pepper, ground
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander seeds
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon tarragon ground
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon clove
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
To make, simply measure all ingredients in a bowl. Then, whisk to incorporate. Place all ingredients in a glass jar, with a tightly fitting lid. Then, store in a cool dry place away from sunlight.
Health and Medicinal Properties Of Tailed Peppers
In Traditional Chinese Medicine cubeb pepper was used an aphrodisiac. This later aptly named the “Oriental Happiness Pill’.
In the middle ages Monastic Medicine also played a role in exuding the health benefits of the little tailed pepper. It is believed that cubeb pepper was brough to Europe through Arabic doctors in the 9th century.
Hildegard von Bingen, a German nun, during the medieval period, is much lauded today for her work in healing and finding cures in nature. Von Bingen methodically documented everything. She believed that the taking of cubeb pepper led to a cheerful disposition, clear thinking. and a perceptive mind. The healer was known to chew three to six berries a day for mental alertness.
Von Bingen wrote of her findings, “The Cubeb is warm, and that warmth has the right mixture in it, and it is also dry. And when someone eats cubeb, the unseemly desire that is in him is tempered. But it also makes his mind happy and makes his mind and his knowledge pure, because the useful and inordinate warmth of the cubeb extinguishes the unseemly glut of desire in which stinking and muddy liquids are hidden. Cubeb makes the spirit of man and his mind brightly clear”.
Today cubeb pepper is used for health benefit, in its crushed form, from two to four grams per day. These berries are used in homeopathic medicine for inflammation of the urinary tract and to aid in digestion. In Ayurveda medicine, it is used to relieve respiratory ailment such as bronchitis, colds, and coughs.
Cubeb Pepper in Home Remedies
For indigestion cubeb pepper can be used in a tea. In a teapot, add 1/8 tablespoon of ground cubeb pepper, with ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric. Then add several leaves of fresh basil. Bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil. Then pour into the teapot. Steep for two minutes. Strain and enjoy.
For coughs, add two pinches of crushed Cubeb pepper to a tablespoon of honey. Mix the honey into a freshly steeped tea of your choice. Drink slowly.
Why We Love the Cubeb Pepper
Our Java pepper adds a wonderful hint of exotic flavour to a multitude of food and beverage applications. It helps to incorporate something different into meal plans. Afterall, spice is the variety of life!
Return & Refund Policy
Return & Refund Policy
We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
To start a return, you can contact us at shop@spicenslicemarket.com. Please note that returns will need to be sent to the following address: [INSERT RETURN ADDRESS]
If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted.
You can always contact us for any return question at shop@spicenslicemarket.com.
Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.
Exceptions / non-returnable items We accept returns within 30 days of delivery for unused items in original packaging.
Start a return: support@spicenslicemarket.com with your order number.
Non-returnable: opened perishable goods. Refunds to original payment method.
Certain types of items cannot be returned, like perishable goods (such as food, flowers, or plants), custom products (such as special orders or personalized items), and personal care goods (such as beauty products). We also do not accept returns for hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gases. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items or gift cards.
We accept returns within 30 days of delivery for unused items in original packaging.
Start a return: support@spicenslicemarket.com with your order number.
Non-returnable: opened perishable goods. Refunds to original payment method.
Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.
European Union 14 day cooling off period
Notwithstanding the above, if the merchandise is being shipped into the European Union, you have the right to cancel or return your order within 14 days, for any reason and without a justification. As above, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method within 10 business days. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please contact us at shop@spicenslicemarket.com.
We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
To start a return, you can contact us at shop@spicenslicemarket.com. Please note that returns will need to be sent to the following address: [INSERT RETURN ADDRESS]
If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted.
You can always contact us for any return question at shop@spicenslicemarket.com.
Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.
Exceptions / non-returnable items
Certain types of items cannot be returned, like perishable goods (such as food, flowers, or plants), custom products (such as special orders or personalized items), and personal care goods (such as beauty products). We also do not accept returns for hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gases. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items or gift cards.
Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.
European Union 14 day cooling off period
Notwithstanding the above, if the merchandise is being shipped into the European Union, you have the right to cancel or return your order within 14 days, for any reason and without a justification. As above, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method within 10 business days. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please contact us at shop@spicenslicemarket.com.
We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
To start a return, you can contact us at internationexports01@proton.me. Please note that returns will need to be sent to the following address: For returns, please contact us first at internationexports01@proton.me. We will coordinate the return process with our suppliers and provide you with the appropriate return address and instructions. Return shipping costs are the customer's responsibility unless the item was damaged or incorrect.
If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted.
You can always contact us for any return question at internationexports01@proton.me.
Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.
Exceptions / non-returnable items
Certain types of items cannot be returned, like perishable goods (such as food, flowers, or plants), custom products (such as special orders or personalized items), and personal care goods (such as beauty products). We also do not accept returns for hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gases. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items or gift cards.
Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.
European Union 14 day cooling off period
Notwithstanding the above, if the merchandise is being shipped into the European Union, you have the right to cancel or return your order within 14 days, for any reason and without a justification. As above, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method within 10 business days. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please contact us at internationexports01@proton.me.
Shipping Policy
Shipping Policy
Shipping Policy
Processing time:
• Orders ship within 1–2 business days (Mon–Fri, excluding holidays).
• You’ll receive an email with tracking as soon as your order leaves our facility.
Free Shipping thresholds
• United States: Free at $50+
• Canada: Free at $70+ CAD
• European Union: Free at €100+
• Middle East: Free at US$100+
Note: Free shipping applies to eligible products only (see “Heavy/Bulky items” below).
Flat rates & service levels (shown at checkout)
United States
• Standard: $5.99 (est. 3–5 business days)
• Express: $13.99 (est. 2–3 business days)
• Premium: $22.99 (est. 1–2 business days)
Canada (CAD)
• Standard: $9.99 CAD (est. 5–10 business days)
• Express: $17.99 CAD (est. 3–6 business days)
European Union (EUR)
• Standard: €6.99 (est. 3–7 business days)
• Express: €10.99 (est. 2–4 business days)
Middle East (USD)
• Standard: US$15.99 (est. 6–12 business days)
• Express: US$28.99 (est. 3–6 business days)
Kampot Pepper Wholesale – Middle East (export from Rouen, France):
0–10 kg: $74
10.01–20 kg: $109
>20 kg: “Contact us for a freight quote”
*Transit times are estimates from carriers and may vary by destination, weather, and peak season volume.*
Heavy/Bulky items (Emergency Food)
• Emergency Food buckets and similar heavy/bulky items ship on special heavy-service rates and are excluded from Free Shipping.
• Exact rates are shown at checkout based on destination and weight/dimensions.
Where we ship
• We currently ship to the US, Canada, the EU, and select Middle East destinations. If your country isn’t available at checkout, contact us and we’ll do our best to help.
Duties, taxes & import fees (international orders)
• Orders outside your market may be shipped DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid). Local duties, VAT, or brokerage fees—if any—are the customer’s responsibility on delivery.
PO boxes & military addresses
• Many items can ship to PO Boxes and APO/FPO/DPO addresses via postal services. Heavy/Bulky items may require a street address.
Address changes & order edits
• If you need to change your shipping address or cancel, email support@spicenslicemarket.com immediately. We’ll do our best, but we can’t modify orders that have already been processed.
Tracking & delivery
• Tracking updates can take up to 24–48 hours to appear.
• If tracking shows “delivered” but you can’t find the package, please check with household members and neighbors, and wait one business day. Then contact us—we’ll assist with a carrier trace.
Lost, delayed, or damaged shipments
• If your order arrives damaged, email photos of the packaging and product to support@spicenslicemarket.com within 48 hours of delivery so we can help.
• For delays beyond the estimated window, we’ll work with the carrier to resolve it.
Refused/undeliverable packages
• Packages returned to us as refused or undeliverable may be refunded minus the original shipping cost and any return shipping/handling fees charged by the carrier.
Partial shipments
• To speed delivery, we may ship items separately at no additional cost. You’ll receive tracking for each shipment.
Holiday & peak season note
• High order volumes and carrier constraints can extend processing and transit times. We recommend ordering early during peak periods.
Questions?
• Email us anytime at support@spicenslicemarket.com. We’re happy to help.
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