What is Nutmeg and How is it Used?

Nutmeg is a spice that has been used for thousands of years in a number of different dishes. It is a favorite for recipes that contain fruit and many baked goods. Since the first century, cooks have been grinding the nuts (sometimes called seeds) of the tree, which is believed to have originated in the Banda Islands of Indonesia.

It is hard for many to describe the taste of this spice, as it does not really taste that appealing on its own. However, in many dishes from eggnog to even Alfredo sauce it adds a nice somewhat nutty, almost sweet flavor. Some often compare it to cinnamon, though the two are noticeably different when you compare the two together side by side.

While you can find it already ground in powdered form in a number of different stores, if possible use fresh nutmeg, as the flavor will be far more intense and delicious. There are a number of different grinders one can look at and choose from to make your own fresh spices at home. Making your own spices not only tastes so much better, but it also helps you save money and reduce costs as well. It can be a lot more affordable to purchase items whole than it is already in powdered form! It also stores very well, so no need to worry about it spoiling or losing its flavor.

To cook with it, you simply need to add the desired amount into whatever recipe you wish to make. Some people wonder what types of foods can taste great with it, and really the options are endless. Because of it's flavor it is usually traditionally found in baked goods, such as apple crisps, pies, cakes. It is also quite popular to add it different sauces and other recipes.

There are many different home remedies using nutmeg as well, but it is very important that you know that high doses of nutmeg can potentially be lethal. While it is fine to cook with for most people, eating more than 6-7 teaspoons of it could cause nausea, hallucinations, and other life threatening health problems. Since this is rare to eat that much, it it not a concern for most people.

Now that you know what nutmeg is and how it is commonly used, you're ready to start grinding your own and get cooking with it!