Ingredient Spotlight: Allspice

by Nicole Weston, Posted Dec 12th 2005 @ 11:05AM

allspice

Allspice is an unusual and complex spice. It is actually a dried, unripe fruit. It is usually ground and combines the flavors of cloves, pepper, cinnamon, juniper and nutmeg, hence its name. It was discovered in the Caribbean by Christopher Columbus and brought back to Europe. According to the Wikipedia history, it was much more commonly used in homes prior to World War II, during which many of the allspice trees were cut down, reducing supply and forcing people to turn to other spices. It is an important ingredient in Caribbean jerk seasoning, mole, curries and many types of sausage. I am personally a fan of it in desserts, like gingerbread.

If you’re never used it before, there is no time like the present. Here are a few recipes to get you started: