All about pink berries: origin, use, virtues
- Matana Québec
- Mar 8, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: 24 hours ago
What are pink berries (peppercorns) and where do they come from?
The pink berries are the fruits of several species of shrubs of the genus Schinus which are used as spices.
Pink Bay grows on Reunion Island, South America, Florida, Madagascar, New Caledonia and Brazil. The best quality is called Calibre A+ and the berries are then homogeneous and fully mature. Only 5% of the harvest meets this specific calibre, intended for great chefs.
The world’s main producers are Brazil and Madagascar. (Sources : Wikipédia)
The pink berry has a powerful but not pungent fragrance. Its flavor is sweet, sweet, peppery and aniseed. It can be eaten raw or cooked.
In addition to being decorative, it goes perfectly with fish, shellfish, white meats, raw meats (tartars, carpaccios) as well as chocolate-based desserts.
👉 Too much pink berries are indigestible and can be toxic. A dozen grains per dish is enough.
Characteristics of pink berries
Bright pink colour;
Taste delicately peppery, fruity and slightly sweet (not spicy);
Sweet and aniseed fragrance;
Heat sensitive because they contain essential oils that evaporate rapidly;
Light, soft and hollow.
If you use a grinder to crush pink berries, use a coarse grinder.
How to use Pink Berries in the kitchen?
Pink berries are as good for savoury as sweet dishes. They make simple recipes for meals worthy of the greatest occasions! Here are some suggestions:
Pink Berries in sweet and savory dishes
Strawberry-pink berry compote – Simmer strawberries with a pinch of crushed pink berries and a splash of maple syrup for a fragrant topping on pancakes or yogurt.
Pink berry butter for steaks or vegetables – Mix softened butter with crushed pink berries, garlic, and sea salt for a bold finishing touch on grilled meats or roasted veggies.
Goat cheese & pink berry tartlets – Top puff pastry with creamy goat cheese, a drizzle of honey, and crushed pink berries for a unique appetizer balancing sweet and savory.
Vegan pink berry and avocado toast – Spread mashed avocado on toasted sourdough, then top with a sprinkle of crushed pink berries, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of chili flakes for a refreshing yet spicy twist.
Pink Berry Marinade
Citrus & pink berry marinade for fish – Blend crushed pink berries with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs for a zesty marinade that enhances salmon, cod, or shrimp.
Honey-pink berry glaze for grilled chicken – Mix honey, crushed pink berries, soy sauce, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a sweet-savory glaze perfect for poultry.
Pink berry & yogurt marinade for lamb or tofu – Combine Greek yogurt, pink berries, cumin, and garlic for a creamy, tenderizing marinade ideal for meat or plant-based options.
Creative Garnishing Tips for Cocktails & Desserts
Crushed pink berries rim for cocktails – Add a sweet-spicy twist to margaritas or gin-based drinks by rimming the glass with a mix of crushed pink berries and sugar.
Pink berry infused whipped cream – Gently crush and infuse pink berries into whipped cream for an elegant topping on chocolate mousse, panna cotta, or fruit tarts.
Candied pink berries as a topping – Lightly candy pink berries for a crunchy, aromatic garnish on cupcakes, cheesecakes, or even ice cream.
📌 It is always best to add it at the end of cooking to keep its taste.
Health benefits of pink peppercorns
In addition to being decorative and tasty, pink berries have several medicinal properties:
Anti-inflammatory properties
Antiseptic and antibacterial properties
Antispasmodic properties
Relief of rheumatic and joint pain
Helps clean the respiratory tract and digestive disorders
Vasoconstrictive virtues
Effective in combating certain tropical infectious diseases
Conservation of pink berries
Ideally, pink berries should be kept in airtight boxes away from light, moisture and heat. Whole berries keep better and longer. Generally, there is no expiry date for the pink berries, we recommend an optimal shelf life of 2 years from the opening of the bag.
Pink Berry Recipe Ideas
MATANA offers you recipe ideas based on our products. Discover our recipe suggestions here
Why choose Madagascar Pink Berries?
Madagascar pink berries offer a unique, delicate flavor with hints of citrus and spice, making them perfect for both sweet and savory dishes. Grown sustainably, these berries support fair trade practices, benefiting local farmers and communities in Madagascar.
By choosing Madagascar pink berries, you're enjoying high-quality, eco-friendly spices while supporting ethical practices.
Where to buy fair trade Pink Peppercorn online, in Quebec or Canada?
MATANA is a Quebec-based company that proudly offers exceptional products from Madagascar. Our mission is to showcase the unique and high-quality offerings of Madagascar while supporting sustainable practices. A portion of our profits is dedicated to improving the lives of Malagasy farmers, ensuring their well-being and growth.
We carefully select our Malagasy suppliers, partnering with local businesses and producers who share our commitment to natural, environmentally friendly products that respect both the land and its people.
By purchasing MATANA products, you’re not only enjoying premium goods, but also directly contributing to the well-being of these local farmers and the growth of a Quebec company dedicated to making a positive impact.
