Peppercorns are the dried fruit of the flowering vine, black pepper. It is one of the most ubiquitous seasonings in the world: it is used in many different cultures as a staple flavoring agent for food. White and black peppercorns come from the same fruit with the difference being whether or not the berries have been peeled during processing. White peppercorns are more fragrant and sharper in flavor while black peppercorns are earthier and more complex.