About

The allspice berry is native to the Caribbean and Latin America. Allspice is used in sweet and savoury cooking. It is one of the
most important ingredients in Caribbean cooking. Allspice is a key ingredient in Jamaican Jerk Chicken. Italian explorer
Christopher Columbus introduced the berries to Europe in 1492 where they were initially regarded as peppers, hence the Spanish
name pi'mjento (pimento). In the 1600's the British named the berry "allspice" because of its flavour associations with nutmeg,
cinnamon, pepper, and cloves. 

Uses & Ideas

Allspice can be used in any recipe as a substitute for cloves where a milder flavour is desired. Make a Jamaican Jerk Spice Mix (allspice, ginger, chilli, pepper, thyme) and use as a dry rub or marinade with chicken, pork, or seafood.

It can also be used over French fries, baked potatoes, or grilled corn.

Use ground Allspice in minced meat recipes like Swedish Meatballs, Middle Eastern Kofta, Greek Dolmas, ground Beef Kebabs, Meatloaf, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, Lamb Burgers, or Bulgur Pilaf.

Fennel and potato gratin. Sauté sliced onion with a little allspice. Add sliced fennel and sliced potatoes and season well. Placed in a gratin dish and just cover with a mix of two thirds milk to cream. Top with gruyere, slow bake in a moderate oven.

Allspice goes well with bananas, mangoes, cherries, plums, quinces, and pears in compotes, stewed fruits, and syrups.