Hi Neighbors! Indonesia has been famous for its rich spices since ancient times. Even the earliest records come from the Vedic Books in India which discuss Nutmeg seeds and were written around 1000-1500 years BC. Nutmeg is indeed an interesting spice to discuss. In this blog I will explain a few things about the Nutmeg spice.
What is Pala?
Nutmeg tree, (Myristica fragrans) is part of the tropical evergreen tree family (Myristicaceae). This tree is native to Maluku, or the Spice Islands, Indonesia and is mainly cultivated there. Nutmeg has a distinctive sharp aroma and a slightly sweet warm taste. Nutmeg is used to flavor a variety of baked goods, sweets, puddings, potatoes, meats, sausages, sauces, vegetables, and drinks such as eggnog. The net surrounding the nutmeg seed is the Nutmeg Flower which is also a spice. Nutmeg is the only plant that produces 2 different spices.
History of Nutmeg
In the eyes of history, grated nutmeg was used as a marker of social status and was always carried in the pocket. The Romans once used it as incense. Around 1600 Nutmeg became important, as an expensive commercial spice in the Western world. The Dutch once controlled the nutmeg trade and kept prices high. While England and France had tried to get fertile seeds for grafting. However, the Dutch did not want to lose and wanted to remain the full ruler of the Pala. So, Nutmeg seeds that are sold whole are dipped in lime to prevent them from sprouting.
What nutmeg looks like?
Nutmeg trees can reach a height of about 20 meters. They bear fruit eight years after sowing, reach their peak in 25 years, and bear fruit for 60 years or more. The fruit is spherical in shape and has large seeds inside, similar to an apricot. When fully ripe, the nutmeg will split in half, revealing a deep red nutmeg flower, surrounding a shiny brown seed, the nutmeg. The flesh of the fruit is eaten by local people. After being collected, the nutmeg wrapped in aril or nutmeg flowers is taken to a preservation place where the nutmeg flowers are separated, flattened, and dried. Nutmeg is gradually dried in the sun and turned twice daily for six to eight weeks. During this time Nutmeg shrinks from its tough seed coat. The shell is then broken with a wooden club and the Nutmeg seeds are taken. Dried nutmeg is oval, grayish-brown in color with a wrinkled surface.
then, what else is interesting info about Nutmeg?
Nutmeg and flowers Nutmeg contains 7 to 14 percent essential oil, the main components of which are pinene, camphene, and dipentene. Nutmeg when extracted produces about 24 to 30 percent oil called nutmeg oil, the main component of which is trimyristin. This oil is used as a spice, soap fragrance, and perfume. Nutmeg ointment has been used to treat irritation and in the treatment of rheumatism.
Is Nutmeg dangerous?
When consumed in large quantities, nutmeg has psychoactive effects and is reported to cause confusion and hallucinations. Nutmeg poisoning is rarely fatal but can cause seizures, palpitations, and pain.
Those area few things about the Nutmeg spice. So Neighbors? Interested in trying quality homemade food from Kokikan? There's no need to be afraid! because with Kokikan you can try home-cooked food around you which of course has a varied taste. Don't forget to comment and share this article. To read more Articles visit our Blog and stay tuned on our Social Media Instagram and Twitter. Cheers Neighbors!
