Ground Mace

Ground mace offers a warm, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavor with hints of nutmeg and pepper. Its deep orange-red powder releases a fragrant, woodsy aroma that evokes the spice markets of Indonesia, its native origin. The texture is fine and velvety, making it easy to blend into dishes. Valued for its subtle complexity, ground mace adds depth to both sweet and savory dishes without overpowering other ingredients.

Notes

Store ground mace in an airtight container away from light to preserve its potency. Its flavor diminishes over time, so use within six months for best results. A little goes a long way, so use sparingly.

Uses

Enhance the flavor of pumpkin pies and other autumn desserts
Season stews and braises for a warm, aromatic touch
Add to creamy soups for depth and complexity
Flavor rice dishes like pilafs and biryanis
Incorporate into spice blends for sausages and meatballs

Replacements

Nori Sheets

Delicate, seaweed sheets with a briny, oceanic flavor that lend a touch of the sea to any dish.

Dried Figs

Dried figs are the preserved fruit of the common fig tree, Ficus carica, which has been cultivated since ancient times in regions spanning from the Middle East to the Mediterranean. These fruits undergo a drying process that concentrates their natural sugars, resulting in a chewy texture and a deep, complex sweetness often accompanied by subtle notes of caramel and honey. Dried figs are plump and tender, with a soft yet slightly grainy interior that envelops tiny edible seeds. In cooking, they are prized for their ability to add natural sweetness and richness to both savory and sweet dishes, while also contributing a moist texture to baked goods and stuffings. They rehydrate well and can be used in a variety of culinary applications, from salads to desserts.

Recipes to try

Shrimp and Corn Fritters with Chili Aioli

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these golden fritters pack a punch with juicy shrimp and sweet corn, all topped with a zesty chili aioli.

Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells Bake

Creamy ricotta and hearty sausage nestled in pasta shells, crowned with a blanket of melted mozzarella and fresh spinach.