Nutmeg, same as mace, is harvested from the same tropical evergreen tree in the genus Myristica fragrans. Nutmeg is the egg-shaped seed in the fruit of the tree, and mace is the sheath that surrounds the seed. While they share a warm and slightly spice profile, nutmeg is sweeter and mace has a tarter flavor. Nutmeg contains a volatile oil called myristicin which creates its flavor and aroma,
Taste
Pungently sweet, warm, and nutty.
Pairing Spices
Allspice, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, ginger
Complements
Pumpkin, potato, spinach, cheese sauce, milk and rice puddings, sweet spicy cakes, biscuits
Culinary Uses
Buying and Storing
Nutmeg is available whole or ground, although it is most flavorful as whole and ground when needed. When purchasing whole nutmegs, avoid broken ones with signs of worms. If kept in an airtight container away from sun and humidity, whole nutmegs will last for a few years.
Health Benefits
- Anxiety, Depression
- Cancer
- Cholesterol
- Epilepsy
- Memory loss
