Allspice and All Things Nice
The pumpkin cupcakes I made yesterday has the perfect balance of spices. It had a combination of cinnamon, ginger, allspice and nutmeg (one of my favourite spices).It was the first time ever that I used allspice and was curious about this beautiful spice.
Allspice (Pimento) is native to Central and South America,
but is mostly associated with the West Indies island of Jamaica where they use
it in meat dishes such as meat patties and as a jerk seasoning. This warming
spice is also used in mulled wine, marinades, cookies and other baked goods.
(To those not familiar with south African cooking, we also
have an equivalent to jerky called biltong, made with beef, venison and even
ostrich meat. One of the things South African's try to smuggle through customs
when going to visit family abroad - its that good.)
Allspice originates from the Pimento Tree (Jamaican Pepper
Tree). The berries is harvested and dried just before the berries reach
maturity (when they are mature they lose their flavour)
The name, Allspice, derives from its complexity of flavours
being a combination of cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg with a hint of peppercorn and
juniper.
It has been used for centuries to aid indigestion, but also
used in a liniment to sooth muscular aches and pains. Its essential oil is
realise on its antiseptic properties, but is also good for depression, so the
perfect spice to add to your baked goods if you want to chase the blues away!
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