Nutmeg - Whole

From the fruit of the nutmeg tree come two edible spices - the nutmeg "nut" and a lacy covering around its outer shell, called "mace". Historically cultivated out of Grenada and the Caribbean, it is now found in Africa and Indonesia. Nutmeg is aromatic, sweet and warm. In its whole form, a nutmeg can be stored for several years. Grated fresh from the nut insures the strongest flavor, but pre-ground nutmeg from a reliable source is easier and more convenient to use. Nutmeg is traditionally used in all sorts of baking recipes, but also adds a unique flavor to cheese sauces, pasta fillings, risotto, fish or chicken, and sautéed spinach.