Allspice

A single spice, not a blend, made from dried berries that taste like a mix of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg — hence the name. Common in Caribbean cooking (jerk seasoning) and warm-spiced baking.

Allspice

Used for

  • jerk seasoning
  • baking
  • mulled cider
  • braises

In the kitchen

  • use whole berries in long-simmered dishes and remove before serving
  • grind fresh for baking

Picking it at the store

  • Ground loses potency fast — buy whole berries and grind as needed if you use it often
  • Not a blend of other spices despite the flavor resembling one; don't substitute a cinnamon-clove-nutmeg mix 1:1, allspice is more concentrated

Related terms

Browse the full glossary →

Tastease's cooking wizard explains steps like this one in plain language, right when you need it — while you're actually cooking. Shop smarter, cook with confidence.

Try Tastease free →