Cooking Precision
The grind size affects how much pepper you actually use. A teaspoon of coarse pepper is less intense than a teaspoon of finely ground pepper, which can inadvertently overpower a dish if measured incorrectly.
How to Spot the Difference
Here are a few tips to ensure you’re using the right McCormick black pepper:
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Read the Label Carefully: Look beyond the brand logo. Check the words “coarse,” “ground,” or “organic” to know exactly what’s inside.
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Check the Bottle Shape: Some McCormick bottles have slightly wider necks for grinding or distinct caps for freshness.
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Observe the Color and Texture: Coarser pepper is darker and chunkier; finely ground pepper is lighter and powdery.
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Smell Test: Fresh pepper should have a strong, pungent aroma. If it smells weak or musty, it may have been sitting too long.
Bottom Line
Next time you’re reaching for that familiar McCormick black pepper bottle, take a moment to double-check. While most people can’t spot the difference at a glance, the type of pepper you use can subtly transform your dishes and impact your culinary results. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference — and once you know what to look for, your taste buds will thank you.
