Answer: peppering

AnswerCrossword Clue
PEPPERINGSeasoning pungently
pepperingPEPPER, to season with a pungent condiment
pepperingInflict severe punishment or suffering upon
pepperingCover or fill with a liberal amount of scattered items
pepperingHit repeatedly with small missiles or gunshot
pepperingSprinkle or season (food) with pepper