Nepal Timut pepper

Origin & Special Features

Nepal Timut pepper originates from the mountainous regions of Nepal and belongs to the Zanthoxylum plant family. This pepper is often confused with Szechuan pepper , although they are two different but related spices. Both pepper varieties offer the characteristic, slightly numbing effect on the tongue, but Nepal Timut pepper has a more intense citrus note and a somewhat fresher flavor. This pepper is also known as "green Szechuan pepper" and is frequently used in Nepalese and Tibetan cuisine.

Taste & Aroma

Nepal Timut pepper brings a wonderfully complex freshness to any dish. It not only imparts a pleasant numbing effect, but also a distinct citrus note that sets it apart from other peppers. Its aromas are simultaneously floral, fruity, and slightly spicy, making it an excellent match for fish and poultry dishes. The flavor is milder and less intense than that of traditional red Szechuan pepper , but still just as exciting and exotic.

Application

Nepal Timut pepper is perfect for refining dishes that benefit from a fresh, tingling heat. Use it in Asian and Tibetan recipes or as an interesting ingredient in sauces , marinades , and meat dishes . The pepper also goes well with grilled or fried foods , as the heat brings out their full flavor. A classic use is with fish or poultry , but it also adds an interesting touch to vegetable dishes or soups.

Why Nepal Timut pepper is called “Szechuan pepper”

Although Nepal Timut pepper is botanically a different species than traditional Szechuan pepper , it is often marketed under the same name in the West. This is because both pepper species come from the same genus and offer similar, numbing aromas. However, the "true" Szechuan pepper (Zanthoxylum simulans), which comes from the Szechuan region of China, is usually red and has a slightly different flavor that is more intense and sometimes bitter. In contrast , Nepal Timut pepper is greener and has a fresher citrus note, making it a slightly milder and fruitier alternative.

Ingredients

Nepal Timut pepper (Zanthoxylum armatum).