Summer is right around the corner, and soon it will be time to fire up the Webber and light the charcoal – sweet, savory, smokiness awaits. We’ll be grilling everything from ribs and chicken to fresh sweet corn, ripe tomatoes, and juicy peaches. Thankfully, when it comes to seasonings, Lafayette Spices has our back with some of the best options in the world!

One of our absolute favorite grilling spices is our Smoked Tellicherry Peppercorns. They’re larger than your average pepper because they are left on the vine longer – this process is what gives the peppercorns their deep, rich flavor. Aromas of robust smoke and fruitiness. This is your go-to peppercorn this summer – use it for seasoning pork chops, steaks, burgers, and chicken. Wonderful on seafood before grilling – imagine this smoky goodness on some grilled shrimp, or a swordfish steak!

But where do these hallowed spices come from? Let’s dig into that! Our Tellicherry Smoked Peppercorns hail from India – where all Tellicherry peppers come from. Their extra large berry size are due to them being left on the vine to ripen longer – just before they turn red. This technique maximizes the rich fruity notes in the pepper berries. As they dry, the peppercorns turn black and solidify the rich notes of cocoa, coffee, and dried fruit. You can even pick out citrusy notes of lime, orange, and yuzu. What an incredible spice!

The smoky heat of the Tellicherry Smoked Peppercorn will work well with just about any savory dish you can dream up. A course grind used in conjunction with one of our beautiful sea salts would make the perfect seasoning for a thick cut rib eye or pork chop. A fine grind could be used to season slices of raw fluke, garnished with tart grapefruit and a nice heady olive oil. The smokiness of these peppers would be magical paired with fresh summer tomatoes and peppers, alongside some grilled bread and a handful or torn basil.

The Smoked Tellicherry Peppercorn pairs perfectly with beef. We’d recommend grinding it just before you’re ready to use it and sprinkling it generously over the piece of meat. The earthy woodsiness of the peppercorn work in beautiful harmony with the rich meaty beef. Try sprinkling some on your next backyard burger, or thick ribeye steak. Also works wonderfully on ribs and shish kabobs! The possibilities are really endless, and you’re next beef grilling escapades shouldn’t be without Wild Tailed Peppercorns!

Grilling is a great way to have fun outside in the summertime. Make sure it’s tasty too! Lafayette Spices is an easy way to add great flavor to whatever you might be grilling up this summer.