Nutmeg Powder | Ground Nutmeg, Myristica fragrans

What Is Nutmeg?

Nutmeg is the seed of the nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans), a tropical evergreen native to the Banda Islands, part of the Maluku Islands of Indonesia, the original Spice Islands. The tree produces an apricot-like fruit. Inside is a hard seed wrapped in a lacy red covering. The seed is nutmeg, and the red covering is dried separately as the spice mace.

Nutmeg was one of the most valuable spices in history. In the 17th century the Dutch and English fought over the tiny Banda Islands to control the nutmeg trade, and the English traded one of those islands for Manhattan.

Ground nutmeg has a warm, sweet, nutty and slightly woody aroma. It is a key spice of the holiday season: eggnog, pumpkin pie, gingerbread, apple pie, spiced cookies, mulled wine and chai. It is also essential in savory cooking, especially in bechamel and cheese sauces, mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, quiche, meatballs and many European stews and sausages.

Nutmeg is strong, so a small pinch goes a long way. For the freshest flavor, keep the jar tightly closed and buy in amounts you will use within a year.

Our nutmeg powder contains only ground Myristica fragrans seeds with nothing added. It is sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.