Before being given a Peugeot Paris u’Select Pepper Mill, I didn’t think black pepper could improve my cooking that much. I was, if you will, a pepper naysayer—sometimes skipping the step altogether and rolling my eyes when my partner added pepper to their meal before eating. And though a well-equipped kitchen doesn’t require an old-school pepper mill, now that I own one, I’ll never skip the pepper step of a recipe. Freshly ground pepper has a subtle flavor that enlivens salad dressings, levels up soups, and can tie the elements of a dish together.
My transformation to being a dedicated pepper user occurred after my household went gluten free (not for fun, but for medical reasons). Gluten is hiding in many seasoning blends, but not peppercorns. For people who cannot eat gluten, fresh cracked pepper is a safe and delicious way to add flavor to a meal.
The Paris u’Select Pepper Mill brings a little joy and elegance to my kitchen, and I now enjoy giving it as a gift.
Our pick
This pepper mill has been a favorite since it was introduced more than a century ago, and it’s still the best due to its ease of use, even grind, and classic look.
