Contrary to its name, allspice does not consist of a mixture of spices, but instead originates from a single evergreen plant known as Pimenta dioica. Cultivators harvest the unripe fruits and allow them to dry until they resemble large, brown peppercorns. Freshly grinding the dried berries just before use results in higher quality aroma and flavor.
Christopher Columbus reportedly encountered allspice trees on the island of Jamaica during his voyages to the New World. Birds played a key role in germinating the seeds and many people believed this plant grew exclusively on the island until later spreading to parts of Central America. Allspice was introduced to the European and Mediterranean territories in the 16th century. The British still use this spice often in their cooking and in baking cakes.
Even more common in Caribbean cuisine, allspice gives the ever-popular Caribbean jerk seasoning its distinct cinnamon-nutmeg-clove flavor combination. Our Jerk Wing Rub, Blend 225, includes allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, with a hint of orange. This lively Jamaican-inspired blend is full of bright tropical flavor and can be purchased through one of our many distributors.