Collection: Allspice

(Also Known as Jamaican Pepper, Clove Pepper or Pimento)

What does allspice taste like?

Warm, peppery and sweet, allspice is the only spice grown exclusively in the New World. Originally used by the Caribbean islands to preserve meat, it is still a major component of Jamaica's famed jerk seasoning and various pickling blends, stews, and curries.

Most allspice today goes to the commercial food industry (it is one of the main spices in ketchup); however, it is principally used in dessert making in Western kitchens.

Is Allspice a blend of spices?

No. Allspice is a single spice despite misconceptions regarding its name. This curious name derives from its singular aroma, which is simultaneously reminiscent of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper. Allspice is full-bodied and versatile and partners with ease with many other spices.

We ground our allspice in small batches to preserve longer quality, and our blends are stored in amber jars to preserve the taste and protect from the natural light. To date, all of our batches of allspice have been organic. When making spice blends it is often difficult to manufacture true organic spice mixes as spices are often grown in areas of the world where it is not economically possible for farmers to gain said accreditation. Nevertheless, we always source organic quality spices when making our spice mixes.

What flavours go with Allspice?

• Apple
• Black Pepper
• Clove
• Cinnamon
• Ginger
• Lemon
• Orange
• Pumpkin
• Nutmeg

Our trio of Mitmita (3rd Century AD Ethiopian spice mix), Baharat Gulf of Arabia (Saudi spice mix) and 17th Century AD Quatre Epices (French spice mix) all showcase the beautiful aromas that allspice encapsulates alongside the alchemy of cinnamon.

What are the health benefits of allspice?

With anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, allspice is a popular flavouring agent in medicines. High in magnesium and iron, it makes a great digestive aid. Many of the compounds in allspice are considered potential treatments for alleviating arthritis and nausea too.

What are interesting facts about allspice?

• The Mayans were using allspice from 2,000 BC to embalm the dead.
• Europeans have a long history with allspice preservation properties, and the Scandinavians still use allspice in the fishing industry today.
• In the 19th Century, as Napoleon invaded Russia, the army crushed allspice berries in their boots to protect them from fungal and bacterial infections. Let us hope they were grounded well.

What is the chief flavour profile of allspice?

Eugenol: (medicinal, woody and warming) colourless dull yellow fragrant oil-based liquid, also found in cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, basil and bay leaf.