It’s no surprise that a spice like nutmeg would be the Ingredient of the Month for October/November (I’m cheating a little bit to bridge these two months).
It’s an important part of our American pumpkin pies. It spices up our cookies and cakes.
It’s often an afterthought or clouded by that cousin, cinnamon.
But maybe there is more to nutmeg?! Maybe nutmeg deserves some cred for its uniquely warm and sweet flavor.
Let’s see!
Tell me more about nutmeg:
Nutmeg is actually a shelled, dried seed of a tree that produces two spices: nutmeg and mace. It is ground to be used as a spice and flavoring.
Where can I buy nutmeg:
You can buy nutmeg at most stores ground. I also like to keep a bag of whole nutmeg on hand, which you can find at specialty grocery or spice stores (or Mexican grocery stores). Whole and ground nutmeg can both last for several years.
How do I store nutmeg:
Nutmeg, like most spices, should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place, like a pantry or spice cabinet.
How do I cook with nutmeg:
I love these posts because I also get to explore new ways to use various ingredients, like this one. Of course, I’m a big fan of nutmeg in pies and all things pumpkin, but what else can you do with it to enjoy that warm and spicy sweet flavor?
Pro Tip: If you’re cooking with whole nutmeg, use a microplane to grate it into whatever you’re cooking.
- Grate a little bit of whole nutmeg into your favorite pasta sauce as it cooks
- Make a unique fruit biscuit cobbler topping
- Top a nice holiday punch or cocktail with it
- Zest up your roasted squash or sweet potatoes
- It’s a critical ingredient in buttermilk or egg custard pie
- Make some nutmeg shortbread or soft, chewy cookies
- Add it to your homemade granola for extra spice
- Pumpkin scones, anyone?!
- Add to your French toast batter or homemade whipped cream