For this month’s bulk spice of the month, we’re featuring nutmeg, a quintessential autumn spice. Nutmeg is actually the seed of the fruit of the nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrant), a native Indonesian evergreen tree that is the source of two popular spices, nutmeg and mace. Nutmeg is the kernel that has been dried for 6-8 weeks, while mace is the red outer layer covering the seed.
Nutmeg has been a coveted spice since at least the 1st century A.D. It was considered high currency for trade, and the Dutch conquested the Banda Islands (aka the Spice Islands) in Indonesia in order to monopolize the nutmeg trade. This resulted in the establishment of the Dutch East India Company.
These days, nutmeg is commonly used in seasonal and holiday desserts, beverages, and savory dishes. It’s a vital ingredient in pumpkin pie and pumpkin spice blends, along with other warming spices such as cinnamon, cloves, ginger, cardamom, and allspice. It is also used in other spice blends like ras el hanout and garam masala, and to garnish beverages like cappuccino and eggnog. It can also be used in savory dishes, such as butternut squash soup. Nutmeg pairs particularly well in creamy or cheesy dishes and adds depth to alfredo or bechamel sauce.
Its nutty, slightly sweet flavor and warming aroma are strong and distinct, so a little goes a long way. Nutmeg can be purchased as the whole seed or as a ground powder. The whole seed can be grated directly into recipes (after being grated with a microplane or fine grater to remove a small portion of the seed first). Freshly ground nutmeg will impart a more vibrant, cleaner taste, as the ground powder tends to lose its flavor while sitting on the shelf.
You can find whole and ground nutmeg in our bulk department, and buy as much as you need at a time to ensure you get the freshest product. Whole nutmeg will last a long time provided it is stored in a cool, dry place.