Assam pepper is picked in the Brahmaputra river valleys, in North-East India.
It releases spicy yet refreshing notes with a zingy tang. Crush it roughly with a pestle and mortar and sprinkle over your winter vegetables, delicate fish or grilled meat.
Szechuan berries were already renowned in ancient China. Their citrus yet spicy flavours are ideal with fish, foie gras, chocolate, strawberries and pineapple. Use lightly crushed just before serving.
This variety of sesame with its distinctive aroma is widely used in Asia, sprinkled over noodles, cabbage salads or mixed into a paste to flavour ice creams and pastries.