Nutmeg

Nutmeg prefers cooler climes, so it is mainly cultivated in Sri Lanka’s central regions – in the districts of Matale, Kegalle, and Kandy. The total extent of Nutmeg cultivation in Sri Lanka is 2788ha of which 80% of the plantations are in Kandy district owned by small and mid-scale farmers.

Just like with Ceylon Tea, and other varieties of spices; Nutmeg, grown in Sri Lanka has developed an intricate chemical composition and a flavour complex based on the unique terroir of the country, and is identified under the geographical indication of Ceylon Nutmeg.

Sri Lanka serves around 5% of the global demand for nutmeg, exporting mainly to India, UAE, the USA, Germany, and Pakistan. The country also serves around 7% of the global demand for Mace the spice, exporting to mainly India, Germany, and the UK.

Products and Uses

Nutmeg and mace are the main two products. Oils are extracted from both nutmeg and mace. Powdered nutmeg and mace are used in curry powders. Nutmeg and mace are mainly used for culinary purposes to flavor curries and other food products, confectionaries, and bakery products. It is also used in the preparation of beverages and drinks. Nutmeg is used as an ingredient in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. (Uses of mace and the outer rind are not mentioned.)

Both nutmeg butter and nutmeg essential oil are also widely available.  

Nutmeg  –what it contains

Nutmeg contains an abundance of antioxidants, including plant pigments like cyanidins, essential oils, such as phenylpropanoids and terpenes, and phenolic compounds, including protocatechuic, ferulic, and caffeic acids

Nutmeg has a sweet, spicy, and slightly nutty taste. It also contains eugenol, which can numb the tongue temporarily when eaten in large amounts. When buying nutmeg at the store, get whole pieces for fresher ground versions and better flavor.

HEALTH BENEFITS 

Dental Health, Improved Mood, Better Sleep, Nutmeg is rich in fiber, which helps keep the digestive system healthy and prevents blood sugar from spiking.

It’s also a source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E,  Manganese, Magnesium, Copper, Phosphorous, Zinc, Iron

Nutrients per Serving 

A 1 tsp serving of nutmeg contains:

Calories: 12 , Protein: 0 grams, Fat: 1 gram, Carbohydrates: 1 gram, Fiber: 0 grams Sugar: 1 gram

Portion Sizes- Very Important 

Toxicity. At larger amounts, symptoms become worse and serious complications or death can occur.

Nutmeg is safe in small amounts. However, as little as 2 teaspoons or 5 grams can cause some symptoms of Cases of nutmeg poisoning generally involve either people who try to use the spice as a recreational hallucinogenic or young children who take it unaware.

How to Use Nutmeg

Whole nutmeg can be freshly ground and added to dishes with a micro plane or grater, but the spice is also available already ground. 

Nutmeg is a common ingredient in many cuisines, including European and Indian. There are many ways to add nutmeg to your diet, including:

• Add it to coffee, hot chocolate, tea, or warm milk
• Use it to season vegetables such as cauliflower and sweet potato
• Sprinkle over oatmeal or other breakfast cereals
• Sprinkle over fruit for an added kick
• Bake with it. Nutmeg is a key ingredient in many baked goods
• Add to seasonal beverages such as eggnog, mulled cider, and mulled wine
• Use it in fall dishes, such as ones that feature pumpkin or other winter squashes
• Try cooking dishes from Southern and Southeastern Asia or visit a new restaurant that offers the cuisine. The spice comes from Indonesia, and it features prominently in the food from this part of the world