Nutmeg, spice

Description

Nutmeg is obtained from the seed of an evergreen tropical plant, Myristica fragrans. The tree is native to the Moluccas, or Spice Islands, located in Indonesia and is mainly grown there and in the West Indies. Spiced nutmeg has a distinctive pungent scent and a warm, slightly sweet flavor; it is used to flavor many types of baked goods, confectionery, puddings, potatoes, meats, sausages, sauces, vegetables and beverages such as eggnog. The fleshy arils surrounding the nutmeg seed are the source of the spicy mace.

Properties of nutmeg

Nutmeg stimulates digestion, is carminative, antiseptic and relieves some ailments such as vomiting, nausea and is useful against diarrhea.

Uses

Nutmeg is used all over the world, for example in Indian curry, French bechamel, Swedish meatballs and Middle Eastern lamb dishes. So versatile, it works with savory recipes for scalloped potatoes, glazed carrots, creamed spinach, and creamy soups. Ground nutmeg fills the kitchen with a sweet, nutty aroma when baking spiced cookies and gingerbread. Use it in rice pudding, pumpkin pie, and drinks like eggnog and mulled wine, or cider. It pairs with similar spices, including cinnamon, allspice and mace to enhance the taste of dessert recipes.