Did You Know – Nutmeg & Mace
Nutmeg is a seed kernel of the evergreen Myristica. It can be a spice when ground from the seed.
The nutmeg fruit resembles a peach or apricot. It splits open when ripe to reveal a reddish, lacy outer layer called mace, which covers a hard shell. The nutmeg spice is the seed found inside this shell.
Mace is a separate spice derived from the dried aril (the lacy outer layer) that surrounds the nutmeg seed.
The main producer of nutmeg and mace are in Banda Islands, in Maluku, Indonesia.
Nutmeg is also a commercial source of nutmeg essential oil and nutmeg butter.
Nutmeg and mace, commonly used as food spices, have been traditionally used for their psychoactive and aphrodisiac effects, although clinical evidence is lacking. High doses can cause serious toxic effects including acute psychosis, with risks heightened during pregnancy and with psychiatric conditions.
Culinary Uses
Sweet Dishes: Cakes, cookies, fruit salads, custards, pies, donuts and yogurt.
Savory Dishes: Mashed potatoes, butternut squash soup, pasta sauces, curries, lamb, pork and vegetable gratins.
Beverages: Eggnog, hot chocolate, chai, lattes, smoothies and mulled cider.
Spice Blends: Pumpkin pie spice, garam masala and jerk seasoning.
Traditional & Other Uses
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Digestive Aid: Helps with gas, bloating, and diarrhea; often mixed with cinnamon.
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Sleep Aid: Warm milk with nutmeg is a traditional remedy for relaxation and insomnia.
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Oral Health: Antibacterial properties can help with bad breath.
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Massage Oil: Essential oil used in aromatherapy or massage.
Tips for Use
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Fresh is Best: Grate whole nutmeg with a microplane for superior flavor and aroma.
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Start Small: A little goes a long way; it can easily overpower dishes.
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Combine with: Cinnamon, cloves, cardamom or ginger.
Source: Wikipedia
http://www.InDianesKitchen.com
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Categories: Did You Know, Spices/Seasoning
I didn’t know any of this, but I like the spices. Thanks very much, Diane
You’re welcome Derrick
I like nutmeg
Me too but just a hint.
yes – tiny bit
Great information as always. We used to follow each other when I had the website Buying Seafood.
Thank you!
Thank you for reposting Ned!
My mum believes in a warm cup of milk with nutmeg – she’s convinced it’s the ideal recipe for a good night’s rest! We’ve always used ground nutmeg in our food, but a few months ago we bought whole nutmeg, and the flavour is so much more intense.
You’re mum is a smart woman!
I had no idea!
Thanks Beth!
Thanks for the facts Diane! I didn’t know it had such properties and the way to use it.
I knew of nutmeg and mace but I had no idea it was from the same seed.
Me either. Certainly interesting 😊
Fascinating! I love nutmeg in eggnog. Something about its flavor combined with rum flavoring is just so GOOD!
Oh yes I agree Beth, it’s like peanut butter without jelly! Haha
How fascinating! I didn’t even know what mace was until your post. Nice to learn something new. Thanks Diane!
I’m hoping to make a New Year’s Pretzel and post it, I use it for that. I love that they get two spices from one seed kernel. You’re welcome Ab!
I’m in total agreement with you regarding using fresh grated nutmeg – yum!
Yes freshly grated anything is so much tastier than dried. I used to always use the can Parmesan cheese by Kraft, Once I tried the Parmesan wedge of cheese I never went back.
I don’t think I’ve ever used mace. Both of these spices have interesting stories. Thanks for sharing them.
The only thing I have used mace with is a New Year’s Pretzel. I loved how it tasted and I want to make another this year if I have time. I had to order it from Amazon because I couldn’t find it at the grocery store.
I never know the background on these spices
They are usually very interesting.
I didn’t know that about nutmeg and milk for falling asleep and I just read a story and saw a video touting peanut butter for a good way to fall asleep and stay asleep. Two tablespoons (which seems excessive) and even better paired with whole-grain crackers. I like the milk idea as you’re getting the calcium we need as we get older.
I didn’t know that either Linda, I love researching the history of food etc. I have never heard that about peanut butter but I like the idea!
Yes, healthy fats and the tryptophan and magnesium help you relax and is good for you, especially when paired with carbs. I like it with Triscuit crackers.
This was a cool post! I always wondered where nutmeg came from and I never understood mace!
If I have time I want to post a New Years Pretzel if I can find my recipe. It has mace in it and the taste is so unique, I love it.
I use nutmeg a lot in my baking, but have never heard of mace. What does it taste like? Is it similar to nutmeg, Diane?
I didn’t know how to explain the flavor (you will see why) so I went to the trusty AI. 🤦🏽♀️ The way AI explains it is that it is a more delicate, spicier and citrusy version of nutmeg, with hints of pepper, clove and floral where nutmeg is warmer, sweeter and a more intense nutty taste.
Interesting. I suppose I could have looked it up myself. Thanks, 😁
I didn’t mind and it taught me something new!