Go Nuts About Nutmeg

Hot on the heals of cinnamon and clove, we’re adding a good pinch of nutmeg to December as we delve into this super Christmassy spice…

Nope, nutmeg’s actually the seed of the tropical evergreen nutmeg tree, which grows in exotic, sun-soaked places like Grenada and Indonesia. Another potent spice, mace, comes from the seed’s covering. Fact.

Amongst a big bunch of (possible) health benefits, it’s said to ease pain, aid indigestion and help skin conditions like eczema and acne. It can also be good for insomnia, so try a sprinkle of nutmeg in some warm milk before bed to bring on the zzzs.

Buy it either whole or in powdered form. Freshly grated nutmeg is way better for flavour so if you want the real deal, buy the whole seed and get yourself one of those cute mini graters (standard size graters do a perfectly good job too).

Here’s a top cook’s tip – heat weakens the spice hit so add nutmeg towards the end of cooking.

For no-effort nutmeg nosh, it has to be this easy pumpkin soup. Pop the ingredients in a soup maker and salivate over the heavenly smells while this scrumptious winter warmer cooks.

Nutmeg and orange transform a humble roast chicken into something stellar in this recipe. Or use it in sides such as these yummy buttery mashed roots.

Creamy, cheesy dishes are a great match for nutmeg as it gives the mild flavours depth and a nice spicy warmth. Try this oozy fettuccine alfredo and you’ll see what we mean.

Or have it to hand to use in loads of different dishes (think seafood, chips, pizza, fried chicken…) by creating this knock out Chesapeake Bay seasoning mix. Store it and use within a month for full freshness.

For something sweet, try these nutmeg donuts  (should that be donutmegs? No? OK). And these gingerbread cupcakes with salted caramel icing will get you right in the mood for some yuletide cheer.

Make the centrepiece of your festive table this magnificent nutmeg roasted turkey with brandy gravy. And enjoy it all over again on Boxing Day with this easy homemade chutney.

If you can get past the fact you’re slurping eggs, then eggnog is the nutmeg-infused Christmas tipple for you. Make it boozey or not, just be sure to lace it with nutmeg.

For a festive flavour explosion, try this spice-loaded nutmeg and orange coffee. Not enough spice? Then dunk in these glazed spice biscotti, you spice devil you.

We’ll finish with this decadent tahini hot cocoa, best sipped by the fire in your new Crimbo jammies. With nutmeg’s sleep inducing properties (and after all the fun of the big day) you’ll be off to the land of nod in no time.