Thai /Lao Makhwaen peppercorn พริกไทย (Zanthoxylum limonella Alston) (makaen, mak waen, or ma-khaen)

A cornerstone in many traditional Northern Thai and Lao dishes, Makhwaen is celebrated for its enchanting citrus-like aroma and its gentle numbing touch, which together contribute to the intricate tapestry of flavors unique to Northern Thai cuisine.

Makhwaen peppercorns are a fascinating Lao/Northern Thai ingredient! They're actually the berries of a wild pepper vine, not true peppercorns, and they have a unique citrusy, slightly numbing quality similar to Sichuan peppercorns but more floral and less intensely numbing.

Here's what you can do with them:

Traditional uses:

• Essential in Lao and Northern Thai soups like tom saap and kaeng om
• Ground into jeow (Lao chile dipping sauces and relishes)
• Added to larb for an authentic Northern flavor
• Used in curry pastes for jungle curries

Other applications:

• Toast them lightly to bring out their citrus notes, then grind and add to marinades for grilled meats or fish
• Infuse into oils or vinegars for salad dressings
• Add whole to braising liquids or stocks for depth
• Use in spice rubs alongside coriander and galangal
• Experiment with them in cocktails - they work beautifully in gin or tequila drinks

The flavor is brighter and more lemony than Sichuan peppercorns, so they're particularly good with lighter proteins like chicken, pork, and fish. They also pair well with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime, and fresh herbs.

We are proud to source our Makhwan directly from dedicated smallholder farmers in the Phrae and Nan provinces of Thailand. Following the harvest, the peppercorns are sun-dried for approximately ten days, ensuring that their aroma and flavor are perfectly preserved. They are traditionally sold with their stems, as the stems are as aromatic as the peppercorns themselves, ready to be used in your cooking.

For the ultimate sensory experience, simply crush these peppercorns using a mortar and pestle or grind them in a pepper mill to release their vibrant essence.

Here at Bucks Spices, we hold our Makhwan Peppercorn to the highest standards:
- Non-irradiated
- Unrefined
- Non-GMO
- Paleo-friendly
- Vegan
- All-natural, with no binders or fillers

Each gusseted bag contains 28 grams (1 oz) of this splendid spice, poised to elevate your dishes and delight your palate. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious food lover, our Makhwan Peppercorn is your gateway to exploring the depths of Thai/Lao flavors. Unleash the magic in your next meal with a sprinkle of tradition and taste the difference of true quality. Enjoy!