Spices

Alligator Pepper

Alligator pepper, also known as Grains of Paradise is a West African spice that is characterised by its hot, pungent and spicy flavour.which is reminiscent of a fruity cardamon pod. Alligator pepper is part of the ginger family, and is also known as grains of paradise, hepper pepper or mbongo spice.

Alligator pepper also has its' uses culturally across Africa - The Yorubas of Nigeria routinely use alligator pepper during baby naming ceremonies and other traditional festivities.

If there is one thing that's special about the alligator pepper, it has to be its' flavour! Alligator pepper has a flavour that's hot, pungent and spicy, reminiscent of a fruity cardamom. Alligator pepper is commonly used in West Africa to flavour soups, vegetables and stews, but it is versatile enough to be used to flavour lamb, chicken and beef dishes.

Jamaican Nutmeg

The Jamaican Nutmeg is one of the most prolific spices used across the West African Coast. Known also as African Nutmeg, African Orchid Nutmeg, and Calabash Nutmeg, the Jamaican Nutmeg has a nutmeg-like flavour, albeit, slightly spicier in taste.

In Nigeria the shelled seed of the fruit, known as 'Ehuru' is sold as a spice, this is more pungent than the whole fruit and tends to be used more with meat dishes though it can also be grated and substituted for nutmeg in sweet dishes.

Traditionally, Jamaican Nutmeg is ground and used as a seasoning, but it can also be grated, and makes a great addition to soups, stews, puddings and sweet dishes.