Yoyo Mak Khen Wild Pepper

Description

25g bag of Fair Trade Mak Khen.  Also known as wild pepper or prickly ash, Mak Khen has long been used as a traditional herb with medicinal properties. Lao mountain people, the Akha, Hmong and other tribal groups also use it as a spice in various foods. Great Taste Award Winner in 2024.

Mak Khen has similarities to Szechuan pepper, It brings a light numbness sensation in the mouth and is best used ground providing distinctive citrus or mandarin tones and slight aniseed flavour. Perfect with asian vegetables, grinding onto fish or adding to any dish which needs a citrus lift and even combines well with chocolate to bring new flavour experiences.

Here’s what the Great Taste Judges said:

A pretty pepper, floral in shape. Big citrus hit, then the aniseed rolls in, pleasantly bitter and followed by the menthol numbing notes – an extraordinary journey of flavour. Powerful and n many ways remarkable but consequently difficult to judge too. We really enjoyed the experience and flavour.

The judges are enamoured with the appearance of these elegant flower shapes. The aroma is citrusy, fresh, and vibrant. On the palate, these peppers are aromatic, fragrant and zesty. The judges are very keen to find out what these are.

Attractive clusters of wild pepper revealing an intensely pungent aroma. There is tons going on here, with a distinct note of juniper and a massive range of pepper, citrus notes from coriander to mandarin, orange peel and Szechuan peppercorn with a menthol lift and even a hint of soapiness on the finish. The judges felt this product needs to be treated carefully to extract all the flavours and considered it as a crust for lamb or with charcoal grilled fish with an infused beurre blanc. It could also be used infused into milk to make a custard or into cream to make ice cream. It could work well as an incredible botanical for gin and even be infused into a tea. Sensational!