Allspice

Description

Allspice is a small, round, brown berry resembling a spice pepper, with a warm, complex aroma that combines notes of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg; it has a slightly spicy, sweet, and spicy flavor. It contains essential oils (including eugenol), antioxidants, and trace amounts of minerals such as manganese, which gives it anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and digestive-supporting properties, and it may alleviate bloating when used moderately. In the kitchen, allspice works well in marinades, stews, bigos, soups, pickling brines, spice blends, and baked goods like gingerbread, as well as in Caribbean cuisine (jerk) and hot spiced drinks. It is best to use whole berries, crushed or freshly ground for a more intense aroma. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place away from moisture; whole allspice retains its aroma for 2–3 years, while ground allspice loses freshness more quickly.