Nutmeg: History And Ways To Use
Nutmeg is a prized spice that has a long historical use, from ancient times to the modern era. It is produced from the seed of the nutmeg tree, which is native to the Moluccas (Spice Islands) of Indonesia. The nutmeg tree is an evergreen with narrow leaves, small yellow flowers, and fruit that resembles a yellow peach or apricot.
The History of Nutmeg
Nutmeg made its way to Europe in the 14th century through the Arab traders who brought it from Indonesia. Since then, it has been highly valued for its medicinal and culinary properties. In medieval times, it was used for medicinal purposes such as treating stomach ailments, headaches and as a sleep aid. It was also thought to be a valuable cure for the plague and other contagious diseases.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Europeans went to great lengths to gain control of the Spice Islands’ nutmeg trade. It was said that in 1651 when the Dutch took over the island of Run, which was one of the main nutmeg producers at that time. The British and Dutch signed the Treaty of Breda in 1667, which allowed the Banda Islands to remain under Dutch control, while the English would retain control of the island of Manhattan in America.
Nutmeg was so valuable at this time, that several European countries including England, France, Portugal, and the Netherlands, even fought wars in their quest to control spice trade. The Dutch were keen to keep hold of their monopoly on nutmeg production, so they sought to destroy other nutmeg-producing trees in other countries to maintain dominance.
In 1810, the British successfully captured the Spice Islands and took control of the nutmeg plantations. The British also introduced nutmeg trees to their colonies such as Grenada and Sri Lanka where they flourished. When Grenada’s economy became dependent on nutmeg, it even became their national emblem. Today, Grenada produces around 25% of the world’s nutmeg supply.
Nutmeg and its Uses
Nutmeg is used in both sweet and savory dishes, and it’s available whole or ground. Its flavor is warm, slightly sweet, and slightly spicy. When used sparingly, it adds an exotic and intense flavor to dishes.
- Spices up Sweet Dishes
Nutmeg is commonly used in sweet baked goods like cakes, bread pudding, and pies. It complements some warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom well, adding a depth of flavor to desserts such as the classic apple pie. Nutmeg also pairs well with fruits such as blueberries, peaches and helps bring out their natural sweetness.
- Enhances Creamy Dishes
Nutmeg also complements creamy dishes like macaroni cheese, creamy soups well. In these dishes, it adds a certain richness and depth to the overall flavors of the recipe.
- Perfect for Spiced Drinks
Nutmeg is a fantastic spice that brings out flavors in spiced drinks such as Eggnog, mulled wine and cider, and spiced rum.
- Nutmeg in Meat Dishes
Nutmeg pairs extraordinarily with meat dishes like goat stew, Bolognese sauce where it adds another layer of flavor to the dish.
- Medicinal Properties
Besides adding flavor to dishes, nutmeg has many medicinal properties attributed to it due to its active compounds. According to ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines, nutmeg is believed to have aphrodisiac properties and can help stimulate the appetite, ease nausea, and improve digestion.
There are also claims that nutmeg can help regulate blood pressure; however, research in this regard is still at a preliminary stage.
- Skin Care
Due to its antiseptic properties and its ability to help improve dull and dry skin, nutmeg is often used in skincare recipes such as face masks, cleansers, and exfoliators.
Nutmeg Recipes
- Apple Crisp
Ingredients:
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup cold butter
6-7 apples, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
In a large bowl mix flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, ground nutmeg, cinnamon.
Cut butter into small chunks and mix it into the flour mixture with a fork or hands until a crumbly texture is achieved.
Add in sliced apples mix until incorporated.
Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and apples are soft.
Serve with whipped cream or ice-cream
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients:
1 lb elbow macaroni
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup flour
3 cups milk
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add macaroni and cook until just tender (al dente). Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan melt butter over medium heat.
Add flour and whisk continuously until combined and bubbly.
Slowly add milk whisking continuously until smooth
Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Cook the sauce at low heat until thickened.
Add shredded cheese to the sauce and mix until melted.
Add the cooked macaroni in the saucepan with cheese sauce and stir to coat.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Spiced Mulled Wine
Ingredients:
2 bottles of red wine
1 orange, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
1 cinnamon stick
1 star anise
1 whole nutmeg
2-3 cloves
1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
Add all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a near boil.
Reduce heat and let the wine simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes.
Strain and serve hot in mugs, garnish with orange peel and cinnamon stick.
Nutmeg is an essential spice that has held significant cultural importance throughout history. It has a warm, slightly-sweet flavor that can transform dishes into something extraordinary. This spice offers many health benefits and is versatile enough to be used in sweet and savory dishes alike. With its rich history and incredible taste, nutmeg is essential in any home cook’s kitchen.