Allspice Ground

Other Common Names: Pimento, Jamaica Pepper, Bay Rum Berry. Botanical Name: (Pimenta dioica)

Allspice berries are the dried, unripe fruits of a tropical evergreen tree native to Jamaica. They are dark brown in colour and average 3mm in diameter. The common name allspice is given because the flavour is like a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Ground allspice should not be confused with mixed spice, which is much milder and sweeter in flavour. Allspice berries are added to pickles and are an ingredient in pickling spices. Scandinavian staples such as herrings in tomato sauce are spiced with allspice, as are many mainstream commercial sauces. Allspice powder is a good substitute for ground cloves in cakes and pastries, when a less pungent flavour is desired.