Black Pepper

Pepper is one of the most ubiquitous spices in the world, and black pepper is perhaps the most commonly used variety. Though pepper hails from India, and grows only in hot climates, it was so highly prized by ancient spice traders that it now features in virtually every cuisine. To showcase pepper's pungent bite, try using it to encrust steak, salmon, or goat cheese, or use it generously in vinaigrettes. For best flavor, skip the pre-ground pepper, and invest in a pepper grinder.