Wild cubeb pepper whole

also: magao berries, mountain pepper, cubeba litsea, may chang, siltimur pepper

Description:
This wild-collected, natural lemon pepper grows in the central highlands of Vietnam. The trees grow sporadically over a large area, making harvesting very laborious and the yield very low. The plant also grows in China and Taiwan, where a national park (Magao) is named after the oily spice. The qualities there are mainly used for the production of perfumes.

The wild cubeb pepper is suitable for the preparation of Asian soups and stews and for refining fish and poultry. In Vietnam, the small berries are popular for preparing marinades for fish and meat. The wild cubeb pepper is very similar to the Nepalese cumeo pepper.

Usage:
Use cautiously because of the very strong aroma. Ideally use just before serving.

Known dishes:
Atayal cuisine

Aroma/Taste:
Strongly lemony, somewhat bitter

Harmonizes with:
Cardamom, bay leaf, mint, licorice, thyme, cinnamon, lemon.

Origin:
Vietnam