Malabar pepper is actually the most widely consumed pepper in the world, and has been grown as a chance seedling on the southwest (Malabar) coast of India where peppercorn production first originated. This is a medium sized berry, sometimes with a slightly greenish hue, and has got a sharp, hot and biting taste that makes it a great warming spice. Malabar pepper is also highly aromatic, with a distinctive, fruity bouquet. It is worth noting that pepper is not only used as a flavoring agent that dramatically enhances the taste of our dishes, but it is also mighty beneficial in its own right. For instance, it increases hydrochloric acid which promotes healthy digestion. Studies have even shown that eating spicy foods can boost metabolism by 8% and that effect lasts for hours.