Grains of Paradise 100g

Grains of Paradise is considered to be one of the rarest spices in the world! This relative of cardamom originates from West Africa, specifically from Nigeria, Ghana and Sierra Leone. The seeds have a piney, peppery bite and have a numbing sensation similar to Australian Pepper berries. Used in West and North African cooking and a mouthwatering way to season myriad dishes.

HOW TO USE

Even in West Africa, Grains of Paradise is an expensive spice, so it is used sparingly. Often, few seeds are pounded in a pestle and mortar before half of it is added (along with black pepper) as a flavouring to West African soups, boiled rice, spice rubs, braises, spice cakes, or gingerbread. It can even be mixed into apply pie filling! The spice can also be substituted in any recipe using alligator pepper or black cardamom to provide a hotter and more pungent flavour.

In the past, Grains of Paradise was used in European beer and winemaking until the 19th century. Over time, as the price of black pepper decreased, the use of grains of paradise declined. Today, it’s still used in the production of Scandinavian spirit aquavit and is enjoying a nascent renaissance as celebrity chefs and curious home cooks experiment with it.

STORAGE

Keep cool, dry. Seal tightly after opening.