What is Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)?
Nutmeg is a dried seed from an evergreen tree native to the Spice Islands. It is the seed of the nutmeg tree, a tropical evergreen that reigns over the Indonesian isles. It has a warm, spicy sweet flavor, and is commonly used in baking and savory dishes. Ground nutmeg has a fragrant aroma and is used often as a seasoning in both sweet and savory dishes. It is also used as an ingredient in spice rubs and curries. Nutmeg is an excellent source of healthy vitamins and minerals, including manganese and magnesium.
What does Nutmeg taste like?
Nutmeg is a fragrant and warm spice that has hints of spice and sweetness, combined with a strong and savoury aroma. Aromatically-speaking, Nutmeg captures strong notes of nutty caramel and peppery warmth, that make it a popular choice amongst home cooks. When it comes to flavour, Nutmeg is a potent combination of savoury and sweet, with a warmth that steadily grows as it lingers in your mouth. Nutmeg is a staple in many home kitchens, as it provides a warmth and sweetness to dishes, making it popular for sweet and savoury recipes alike.
What dishes do you find Nutmeg in?
Nutmeg is a key ingredient in many iconic dishes of global cuisine. In Italy, it is one of the main spices used in making pesto, a sauce usually made with basil, pine nuts, garlic and olive oil. Pumpkin Pie is a classic American dessert that utilizes Nutmeg spices, lending its signature sweet and smoky flavor. In France, Nutmeg is a key ingredient of quiche Lorraine and the country’s speciality dish, Coq au Vin. In Mexico, Mole Poblano – a dense, spicy sauce traditionally served over chicken – includes Nutmeg as one of its various spices. Curry dishes from India often employ both ground and whole Nutmeg, pairing with other spices to great effect. Egypt’s national dish, Kushari is rounded out with a pinch of Nutmeg for added flavor. Last but not least, nutmeg is what adds that familiar flavor to eggnog, a popular Xmas treat.