The name allspice might suggest that it is a spice blend made up of a few ingredients. But, don’t be misled, allspice is in fact a single berry that can bring big flavor to a variety of dishes from meat to mulled wine. But what exactly is allspice and how is it used?
As we said, allspice is the berry from a lush evergreen named Pimenta Siocia, native to Jamaica. Allspice berries can be sold whole and ground, and the preferred option depends on the cooking method you are using. As for the flavor, allspice combines the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pepper. It has a sweet smoky flavor that adds a distinctive pungent kick to food.
Whole allspice berries are usually used in screws and soups, as well as for pickling and brining. If you want to tame the flavor of the berries a bit, cook them before you use them as seasoning. For desserts, such as pumpkin pie, spice cakes, and gingerbread you will have better success using the ground version of allspice.
Allspice is generally available in most supermarkets and grocery stores. But if you don’t have any on hand, and a recipe calls for allspice, it can be substituted by a spice blend. Combine equal parts ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg and you’re all set!
