Buying Kampot pepper to take home: grades and labels

Kampot pepper is one of Cambodia's most prized products, valued by chefs for its aroma and complex flavour. It's also one of the best souvenirs to bring home, as long as you buy the real thing.

Protected status

Kampot pepper has protected geographical indication (GI) status. Only pepper grown in the defined area of Kampot and Kep provinces, using approved methods, can be sold under the name. Look for official GI labels or certification on the packaging.

Types of Kampot pepper

• Black pepper: harvested when green and dried in the sun. Strong and aromatic.
• Red pepper: harvested when fully ripe, then dried. Sweeter and fruitier.
• White pepper: ripe peppercorns with the skin removed. Delicate and slightly floral.
• Green pepper: fresh peppercorns, often used in cooking in Cambodia, including in the famous Kep crab dish. Fresh green pepper doesn't travel well; you'll find it preserved in brine.

Grades

Some producers sort peppercorns by size and quality. Larger, uniform peppercorns usually indicate a higher grade.

Where to buy

• Pepper farms near Kampot and Kep, where you can see how it's grown and buy directly.
• Shops in Kampot and Kep.
• Reputable shops in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, including social enterprises.
• Airports, though prices are often higher.

Avoiding fakes

• Check for GI labels and the producer's name.
• Be wary of very cheap "Kampot pepper" in markets.
• Buy from farms or reputable shops.

Packing and storage

• Keep pepper whole and grind it fresh.
• Store in an airtight container away from light.
• Check your home country's import rules, especially for fresh or brined pepper.

Using Kampot pepper

Use black pepper on steak and in sauces, red pepper with fruit and desserts, and white pepper with fish and creamy dishes. Try it in a lime-and-pepper dipping sauce, like the one served with lok lak.

Frequently asked questions

How much pepper should I buy?

A few small packets go a long way and make good gifts. Whole peppercorns keep their flavour for many months if stored well.

Can I buy online after my trip?

Some producers sell internationally. Look for genuine labels and the producer's name.