SPICY BITS: Allspice

What is it?: A subtle flavor combination of cloves, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg make up the single berry called Allspice. Also known as “Fourspice” in France, it is often confused with the more commonly used French version which consists of the same flavor, but replaces cinnamon with ginger.
Tip: Use it with Scotch bonnet peppers, cloves, cinnamon, scallions, nutmeg, thyme, garlic, and salt to make Jamaican jerk seasoning. Also a big part of Middle Eastern cuisine.

 

SPICY BITS: Chinese Five Spice

What is it?: A dry seasoning for chicken, beef, duck, pork ribs and goose. Chinese Five Spice is made up of several spices, including equal parts Szechwan pepper, cinnamon, cloves, fennel seed, and star anise fruit. The flavor is sweet and peppery with a fruity aroma.
Tip: Use it in stews and breading for fried foods to add an Asian flair.

Chinese five spice ingredients.

Chinese five spice ingredients.