15th August 2024
Chef Binod Baral writes: Deep in the eastern hills of Nepal, where the air is crisp and the mountains stand tall, grows a spice that has been cherished for generations—Sil Timur. Known as the “Nepali Pepper,” this lesser-known gem is a staple in the cuisine of Eastern Nepal, but its unique flavor and aroma are beginning to captivate taste buds far beyond its native land. Sil Timur is not just a spice; it’s a cultural emblem, a medicinal marvel, and now, a key ingredient in an artisan gin that has found its way into the UK market.
What is Sil Timur? Sil Timur (Zanthoxylum armatum), belonging to the same family as Sichuan pepper, is a small, reddish-brown berry that grows on thorny shrubs in the Himalayan region. Predominantly found in the eastern parts of Nepal—such as Ilam, Taplejung, and Panchthar—Sil Timur thrives in the cool, high-altitude climate, where it develops its distinctive, aromatic qualities.
Flavour Profile and Sensory Experience
The magic of Sil Timur lies in its complex flavor profile. When you taste it, you’ll experience a sharp, peppery bite that quickly gives way to citrusy notes of lime and grapefruit. But what truly sets Sil Timur apart is the tingling sensation it leaves on the tongue and lips. This sensation, akin to a mild numbing effect, is caused by a compound called hydroxy-alpha-sanshool, which stimulates the nerve endings in the mouth. The result is a unique, multisensory experience that enhances the flavors of the dishes it accompanies.
Culinary Uses in Nepali Cuisine
In Eastern Nepal, Sil Timur is a beloved ingredient, used in a variety of traditional dishes. Its peppery heat and tingling effect are perfect for seasoning pickles (achar), adding depth to meat curries, and spicing up soups and stews. The spice is often used in a special blend called “Timur ko Chhop,” a mixture of Sil Timur, garlic, ginger, and other spices, which is used to marinate meat or as a base for curries.
Beyond savory dishes, Sil Timur is also used to flavour teas and even some sweets, particularly in the colder regions of Nepal, where its warming properties are greatly appreciated.
Sil Timur in Traditional Medicine
Sil Timur is not only valued for its culinary uses but also for its medicinal properties. In traditional Nepali medicine, it is used to treat digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and stomach pain. The spice is believed to stimulate appetite and aid digestion, making it a common remedy for gastrointestinal ailments.
It is also employed in treating respiratory conditions such as coughs, colds, and asthma due to its warming and expectorant properties. Additionally, the numbing effect of Sil Timur makes it useful for alleviating toothaches and gum problems.
Sil Timur in Gin
A New Chapter In recent years, Sil Timur’s unique flavour has caught the attention of gin makers, leading to the creation of a distinctive gin known as “Siltimur.” This gin, produced in small, artisan batches, has made its way to the UK market, where it has quickly gained a following among gin enthusiasts. The peppery, citrusy notes of Sil Timur add a vibrant, exotic twist to the gin, making it a standout in a crowded market.
What makes Siltimur gin truly special is the love and care that goes into its production. Each batch is crafted with the same attention to detail as a traditional Nepalese meal, ensuring that the final product carries the warmth and comfort of a mom’s tight hug. This artisanal approach not only preserves the authentic flavor of Sil Timur but also honors the cultural heritage of the spice, making every sip a connection to the Himalayan roots of Nepal.
Availability and Economic Impact
While Siltimur gin is now commercially available in the UK produced by Kodoko Distillery based in Ashford Kent , it is still produced in limited quantities, maintaining its artisanal charm. This small-scale production not only ensures quality but also supports the local farmers in Eastern Nepal who harvest the spice. For these communities, Sil Timur has become an important economic resource, offering a sustainable livelihood and preserving traditional farming practices.
My Verdict: Sil Timur is more than just a spice; it’s a cultural treasure from the Himalayas that is beginning to make its mark on the world. Whether it’s adding a peppery kick to a traditional Nepali dish, offering relief from a cold, or infusing a gin with its distinctive flavour, Sil Timur brings a touch of Nepal to everything it touches.
As it continues to gain popularity, both in the culinary world and in artisanal gin production, Sil Timur remains a symbol of the warmth, love, and tradition of the Nepali people—a spice that truly feels like a mum’s tight hug.
Binod Baral, Tourism & Business Advisor of Nepal | Honorary Goodwill Ambassador.
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