Spice | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Allspice Berries

Pimenta dioica Allergen-Free
Allspice Berries

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Myrtaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Caribbean
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Pimenta dioica tree

The Forktionary Angle

"The 'all-in-one' spice."

Definition

The dried, unripe berries of the Pimenta dioica tree, tasting like a blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, hence allspice"."

Sensory Profile

TasteWarm, Spicy, Woody, Pungent
TextureHard, Dried, Woody
AromaCinnamon, Clove, Nutmeg
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Key Region of Origin

Jamaica (major producer).

Main Flavor Compound

Eugenol (also found in cloves).

Whole vs. Ground Potency

Whole berries retain flavor longer than ground (up to 2 years vs. 6 months).

Nutrition Facts

Per 2g (1 tsp whole)
Calories263 kcal
Total Fat9g
Saturated Fat2g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein6g
Total Carbohydrate72g
Dietary Fiber22g
Total Sugars0g
Calcium660mg
Iron7mg
Potassium1000mg

Chef’s Secret

To maximize the flavor of whole allspice berries, lightly toast them in a dry pan before grinding or adding to liquids for infusion.

Substitutions

Best Match

Mixed Spice

1:1 (ground)

A pre-blended mix of spices, often including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, which mimics allspice.

Cinnamon + Nutmeg + Cloves

1:1:1 (ground)

Combine these three spices to replicate the complex flavor profile of allspice.

Ground Cloves

1:1 (sparingly)

Strong, pungent, but lacks the full complexity; use with caution.

Ground Nutmeg

1:1 (sparingly)

Adds warmth and woody notes, but missing the clove/cinnamon aspect.

Buying Guide

Choose whole, unbroken berries with a strong, aromatic scent. Grind fresh for best flavor.

Flavor Pairings

Curries pickles baked goods (fruit cakes) savory dishes Jerk seasoning mulled wine.

Recipes Using Allspice Berries

A Most Excellent Raspberry Iced Tea image 142
Independence Day Main Ingredient Summer Independence Day

A Most Excellent Raspberry Iced Tea

Craving a refreshing and subtly sweet iced tea? This recipe, inspired by a quest for the perfect summer beverage, delivers a delightful blend of fruity raspberry and fragrant green tea. We start with a delicate green tea base to avoid overpowering the raspberries' delicate flavor (though feel free to experiment with black tea – let us know how it turns out!). This isn't your typical sugary sweet tea; it's a refreshing balance of tart and sweet, perfect for a hot day. Customize it further with optional additions like vanilla bean, spices, and citrus! Get ready to sip on summer in a glass.

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Alton Brown's Brined Turkey image 197
Meat Main Ingredient 1 Day Or More Preparation

Alton Brown's Brined Turkey

Unlock the secret to unbelievably juicy and flavorful turkey with Alton Brown's foolproof brining method! This recipe transforms a simple turkey into a culinary masterpiece. The salt water brine magically alters the turkey's cellular structure, locking in moisture and infusing the meat with incredible depth of flavor from aromatic herbs and spices. From the moment you create the fragrant brine to the rich, flavorful gravy, this recipe is a symphony of taste that will impress even the most discerning palates. Prepare for rave reviews – this is the best roasted turkey you'll ever serve! Easily adaptable to chicken too!

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Apple Cider Brine image 194
Condiments Etc 1 Day Or More Poultry Seasonal

Apple Cider Brine

Unlock the secret to the most succulent, flavorful turkey breast this holiday season! Our Apple Cider Brine recipe guarantees moist, tender meat that will impress your guests. This easy-to-follow brine recipe infuses your turkey with the perfect balance of sweet and tart apple cider flavor, creating a truly unforgettable centerpiece for your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast.

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Aquavit's Quick Pickled Cucumbers image 166
Time To Make Cuisine Dietary Condiments Etc

Aquavit's Quick Pickled Cucumbers

Experience the vibrant taste of Sweden with this incredibly popular quick pickled cucumber recipe! According to renowned chef Marcus Samuelsson, these are second only to lingonberry preserves in Swedish culinary fame. Serve as a refreshing accompaniment to Swedish meatballs, other dishes, or even hot dogs – the possibilities are endless! This recipe offers a fast and flavorful pickling method, perfect for adding a zesty touch to any meal. Get ready for a taste of Scandinavia!

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