What Is It?
Nutmeg (known as Jaiphal in India) is a spice that is made from the seed of the tropical evergreen tree, Myristica fragrans. Native to Indonesia and the West Indies, this popular spice has a distinctive pungent aroma. It is used to warm savory dishes like curries and stews as well as in sweet baked goods. Although very similar, nutmeg and mace are not quite the same!
Where To Find It?
You can find nutmeg in your local spice market or grocery store pretty much around the word. It is sold as a whole spice or in powdered form (don’t bother!). The right way to use nutmeg is to have a tiny nutmeg grater (microplane) and use the freshly grated powder in your cooking. Once you’ve compared the powdered version sold in stores against the freshly ground nutmeg you will understand!
Health Benefits
Nutmeg has most of the typical health benefits that you would expect to see from spices and a new one too!
- May boost libido (Ha – got your attention!)
- Contains powerful antioxidants
- Has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties
- May help boost mood, control blood sugar and reduce risk factors for heart disease
- Good for your skin – evens out skin discolorations
- Promotes relaxation and helps you get a good night’s sleep
- Go easy – apparently large doses of nutmeg can cause hallucinations. Don’t get high on nutmeg!!
Read more about the many health benefits of nutmeg!
Culinary Uses
Nutmeg has a distinctive fragrance and a sweet, nutty flavor. Both sweet and savory dishes benefit greatly from this lovely, warming spice.
- In the US, every Thanksgiving, sales of nutmeg go through the roof! Everyone is making pumpkin pie!!
- Nutmeg is a wonderful spice to use while mulling apple cider.
- Nutmeg is a fabulous addition to any baked goods like muffins or quickbreads, especially those recipes involving pumpkin or apple.
- In the West Indies, nutmeg is used heavily to flavor meats in soups, stews, curries, and of course in Jamaican jerk sauce (Ya mon!).
- Apple pie and fruit cobblers really benefit from the addition of nutmeg along with cinnamon.
The Spruce Eats has a wonderful list of recipes that use nutmeg!