Since nutmeg is used in many different cuisines worldwide, it is a spice that is utilized by people of various nationalities. Although mace is the dried reticulated “aril” of the fruit and nutmeg is the dry seed kernel, both nutmeg and mace are derived from the same fruit. The tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the “Myristica fragrans” family of plants is used to produce nutmeg. The tree is indigenous to Indonesia’s spice islands, sometimes referred to as the Moluccas. Although there are indications of nutmeg production in the West Indies, it is mostly grown there. Evergreen nutmeg grows well in warm, humid conditions with lots of evenly spaced rainfall. Depending on the use, whole and ground nutmeg are offered. The spice nutmeg is sweet with a piney flavor and has a strong, unique scent. Because of its distinct sweet taste, it is used to flavor a variety of baked foods, puddings, pies, pastries, and confectionaries.
Although mace and nutmeg are derived from the same tree, their flavor characteristics are significantly distinct. The outer layer that encases the nutmeg seed is called mace, and it is extracted using industrial processes before being pulverized into the familiar red spice. The pit of the nutmeg seed is either left intact or crushed up. Compared to mace spice, nutmeg is sweeter and has a softer flavor. Mace tastes a little hotter and more like a cross between pepper and cinnamon. Despite having comparable qualities, they are hardly never combined in recipes. Whether purchasing nutmeg locally or online, be sure to get the best quality available. Let’s examine five fascinating facts about nutmeg that you may not be aware of.
Facts about Nutmeg Spice
1. Its Extensive Past
Nutmeg spice was regarded as a miraculous spice that might prevent the plague during the Elizabethan era. After a swift mobilization, the Dutch seized control of Indonesia’s nutmeg trade. The British temporarily seized control of the Spice Islands from the Dutch during the Napoleonic Wars, and they moved nutmeg plants from Penang, Singapore, and Sri Lanka. As a result of trade and knowledge sharing, nutmeg plants are transplanted to other British-controlled territories, such Grenada and Zanzibar. With 75% and 20% of the global nutmeg output, respectively, today’s leaders are Indonesia and Grenada. To make the most of nutmeg, get it from reliable suppliers either offline or online.
2. It doesn’t Consider itself a Nut
Despite having a nut in its name, nutmeg is not classified as a nut by science. Actually, nutmeg is the seed kernel found within the golden fruit of the nutmeg tree, an evergreen indigenous to Indonesia’s Spice Islands. The whole seeds of nutmeg are oval-shaped, brown, and approximately 1 inch long. They taste and smell nutty. For those who are allergic to nuts, there is no health danger. Make sure the nutmeg you purchase online is genuine and grown in accordance with accepted practices.
3. India Smokes Nutmeg Powder
For smoking purposes, nutmeg is ground into a fine powder and then used as an alternative to tobacco. During British control, nutmeg powder smoking first appeared in India. Its hallucinatory properties made it possible for it to be widely used throughout the nation. The custom spread over time to many Western nations, where it was subsequently used as a tobacco substitute and appreciated. Purchase nutmeg at your neighborhood grocery shop or online to have a spice with many applications.
4. Its Advantageous Therapeutic Qualities
Numerous therapeutic qualities of nutmeg improve a person’s overall health. When taken in moderation, nutmeg helps with digestion by reducing constipation and gas. It also reduces blood pressure and aids in the treatment of nausea and diarrhea. General pain relief is also provided via application to the skin. Additionally, it has been shown to shield cognitive function against neurodegenerative illnesses including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Purchase nutmeg online or offline to benefit from its therapeutic properties and enhance your well-being.
5. Consuming Too Much Can Be Toxic
If you use too much of the spice, nutmeg might become harmful. The signs of nutmeg poisoning need two teaspoons or more. Excessive nutmeg consumption may cause symptoms including dry mouth, severe nausea, vertigo, and a decrease in brain activity that might finally result in blackouts. Extremely high nutmeg dosages may also cause shock and delusions. Use nutmeg sparingly to minimize any potential health hazards, whether you get it from a store or online.
