Allspice grows prolifically in Jamaica where it is widely used in native dishes. It is a member of the pepper family – the berry of the pimiento tree.  The berries are picked when green and unripe and then dried in the sun to a rich deep-brown  color.  Its flavor is a mingling of cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg, with cloves predominating. Allspice can be bought either ground or whole.

Mixed spice is a blend of spices which often includes allspice, ground cinnamon, cloves, ginger, nutmeg and often a pinch of black pepper, although different brands vary.

Mixed spice and allspice are interchangeable and both add a subtle spiciness to sweet and savory dishes.

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