Sichuan peppercorns

These are known in China as ‘flower peppers’ because they look like flower buds opening. They are reddish brown with a strong pungent odour, which distinguishes them from the hotter black peppercorns. Sichuan peppercorns are not from peppers at all, but are the dried berries of a shrub which is a member of the citrus family. I find their smell reminds me of lavender, while their taste is sharp and mildly spicy.