A book dedicated exclusively to the world's most valued and fascinating spice This evocative collection of more than 100 recipes from around the world are geared to modern lifestyles and informal eating, inspiring the imagination with unusual ways of using pepper--in cakes and desserts, for example--and exploring the mystery behind why pepper and certain foods seem to pair so perfectly together. From steak au poivre and black pepper crisps to the simpler delights of cream cheese and black pepper, the book dares to be different while still reminding us of pepper's traditional uses in pickles, preserves, sauces, soups, curries, and stews. A vivid first-hand description of the pepper gardens and spice markets of Kerala and a fascinating account of pepper's role in shaping history also help provide a colorful backdrop to the fascinating business of cooking with and tasting pepper.