Brad's:
Latin name: Myristica fragrans
Houtt
Common name: Nutmeg
History
Nutmeg is one of the
"newer" spices used for culinary purposes being
first used in cooking during about the 12th century. Prior to that, one of its' uses
was as incense, particularly during Roman times. The Dutch expanded the use, and
nobility, of Nutmeg during the 1600's by growing Nutmeg in the Netherlands Indies through
the Dutch East India Company.
Growing
Seeds grow from the fertilized female
trees only. You really need to be patient on this one, as the average Nutmeg tree
takes nearly 9 years to mature. It needs extremely fertile soil and to be near the
sea where temperatures rarely dip below 60°F (15.5C). Unless you are a hardy and
extreme fan of truly fresh nutmeg, it's best to leave it to the experts.
Uses
Used primarily in cooking, it is
probably most associated with fall and winter cooking. A little nutmeg ground up in a
sachet will give you a wonderful scent for a short period of time.
Comments from Your Host,
Brad
I love nutmeg! What a flavor
enhancer for so many dishes, from curries to desserts. I enjoy rice pudding, but
what a nice touch to sprinkle just a hint of nutmeg on top, and let's not forget about Egg
Nog! Find recipes for both below and thanks for reading about Nutmeg!!!
Recipes using Nutmeg:
Egg
Nog
Rice
Pudding
Creamed
Spinach
Know someone who
would appreciate this?
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