Nutmeg
A warm, slightly sweet spice grated from a hard seed. Most commonly found pre-ground, though whole nutmeg with a small grater gives a noticeably fresher flavor. A little goes a long way in both sweet and savory dishes.
Used for
- béchamel
- baking
- eggnog
- creamed spinach
In the kitchen
- Grate fresh with a microplane if using whole.
- Add a pinch at a time. It's potent.
- Bloom briefly in butter for savory dishes.
Picking it at the store
- Whole nutmeg keeps its flavor for years; pre-ground loses potency within months. Worth the small grater if you use it often.
- A little goes a long way; start with a pinch and add more to taste.
Related terms
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