What is allspice?

Ground allspice is not, as some people believe, a mixture of spices. Rather, it is the dried fruit of the Pimenta dioica plant.

Allspice is one of the most important ingredients of Caribbean cuisine and is used in Caribbean jerk seasoning it is also an ingredient in commercial sausage preparations and curry powders.

In Great Britain it is used in many dishes, including cakes and as a component of pickling spice.

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Allspice has a strong pungent fragrance that reminds people of a blend of Cinnamon, Clove and Nutmeg- however it is in fact the dried berry of the Pimenta dioica tree. It has many uses.

Culinary uses include - soups, stews & curries, Jamaican jerked meats, cakes, cookies & pies. In whole form (not ground) it is found in spice blends for some teas and some pickles.

Aromatherapy uses (oil) include - treatment of Arthritis, depression, gastric cramps, indigestion, and nausea. New studies are being made in its use to treat nervous tension/exhaustion, and neuralgia.