Nutmeg

Common Name

Before the 16th century, the Arabs had sole control over the nutmeg trade. Although nutmeg was introduced to Europe in the 11th century, it wasn't until the Portuguese took over the Spice Islands in 1512 that the nutmeg trade really began to flourish.

The Portuguese kept a tight grip on their nutmeg monopoly, but were eventually overthrown by the Dutch in 1602. The Dutch made desperate attempts to prevent the spread of their coveted nutmeg trees to other islands, they even resorted to burning them to elevate the prices and keep demand greater than supply.

Their efforts however were futile as fruit bearing pigeons eventually spread the seeds to other islands and then the French smuggled some nutmeg seeds to Mauritius. By the 18th century, the British had regional control and began to cultivate the trees elsewhere.

Throughout the rule of the Dutch, Spice Island natives engaged them in battle in opposition of their presence. Inevitable, because they had inferior weaponry, many natives were killed.

Nutmeg is the subject of much folklore and superstition and is said to possess magical qualities. At one time it was believed that keeping a small pouch of nutmeg on your person could prevent bones from breaking. It was also believed that placing a single nutmeg underneath the left armpit would attract followers, even lovers. Many cultures believed that nutmeg could protect against evil.

Nutmeg comes from the Myristica fragrans, a large evergreen tree that can reach heights of up to 60 feet. The tree begins producing fruit in its seventh year and may continue through to its 90th.

Nutmeg is found within the pit of the fruit. The spice mace comes from the same tree and is ground from the dried seed case that surrounds the nutmeg. Nutmeg fruit is collected using long poles with nets on the end. The mace is separated from the seed, which is then left to dry in its casing. Once dry, the cases are cracked open and the warm, sweet aroma of nutmeg is revealed.

Purported Medicinal Qualities*

Nutmeg on its own can be toxic in large doses, however it can still be used liberally in cooking. To reap the health benefits of nutmeg, consume it as an ingredient in a dish, not in a concentrated form as doing so may cause hallucinations and/or vomiting.

Historically, nutmeg has been used to:

• Aid digestion
• As a carminative
• Stimulate appetite
• Relieve nausea
• Treat muscle aches and pains - when essential oil applied topically

*Always check with your healthcare provider before consuming, inhaling or otherwise ingesting any non-prescription or prescription natural or homeopathic substance or pharmaceutical.  ChefatHand.com is not recommending, suggesting, inferring or otherwise endorsing the use of any herb or spice as a medication.

Culinary/Suggested Use

Nutmeg is a commonly used in baking but it is also enhances the flavor of savory dishes. Purchase whole nutmeg when possible and grate fresh as needed. Ground nutmeg loses its flavor quickly.

When cooking with whole nutmegs, remove nuts from the dish before serving. The sweet, warm taste of nutmeg pairs well with cheese, fruit and most meats.  Food for thought:

• Add freshly grated nutmeg to cookies, cakes and sweets
• Sprinkle grated nutmeg on fruit salad
• Try adding a dash of nutmeg to homemade curry powder
• Sprinkle nutmeg on any type of beans
• Add grated nutmeg to mashed potatoes, yams or squash
• Add grated nutmeg to any cheese sauce or béchamel
• Mix grated nutmeg into hearty stews and sausage meat.

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