Description
Allspice, also known as Jamaica pepper, myrtle pepper, pimenta, or pimento, is the dried unripe berry of Pimenta dioica, a midcanopy tree native to the Greater Antilles, southern Mexico, and Central America. The name allspice was coined as early as 1621 by the English, who valued it as a spice that combined the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Contrary to common misconception, it is not a mixture of spices.
Uses
Allspice is used extensively in various cuisines:
- Jamaican cuisine: Essential ingredient in jerk seasoning and traditionally used for smoking meats
- Mexican cuisine: Known as “pimienta gorda” and used in many dishes
- Middle Eastern cuisine: Particularly in the Levant for flavoring stews, meat dishes, and tomato sauce
- European and North American cooking: Used in sausage preparations, curry powders, pickling, and desserts
- Cincinnati-style chili: Gives the dish its distinctive aroma and flavor
Origin
The allspice tree (Pimenta dioica) is native to the Greater Antilles, southern Mexico, and Central America, and is now cultivated in many warm parts of the world. The fruits are picked when green and unripe, then traditionally dried in the sun until they become brown and resemble large, smooth peppercorns.
Processing
Care must be taken during drying to ensure that the volatile oils in the fruit, such as eugenol, remain in the end products rather than being driven out by the drying process. Fresh leaves are similar in texture to bay leaves and are used in cooking, while leaves and wood are often used for smoking meats.
Possible Food Allergies
While allspice allergies are relatively rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions:
- Cross-reactivity: People allergic to eugenol (found in cloves) may also react to allspice
- Symptoms: May include skin irritation, respiratory issues, or digestive problems
- Spice allergies: Those with multiple spice allergies should exercise caution
- Essential oil sensitivity: Some people may be sensitive to the concentrated essential oils in allspice
If you suspect an allspice allergy, consult with a healthcare provider for proper testing and guidance.