Although the name 'allspice' seems to suggest a blend of spices, and that really isn't the case. Rather it is 
because its flavor combines tones of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, among other spices.
Interestingly, allspice also goes by the name Pimento, the Spanish for 'pepper'. The story goes that when Columbus first landed in the New World, he not only made the mistake of believing that he had found India, but also that the pea-sized berry fruit of the allspice tree growing in abundance there was actually pepper. And in fact the allspice berry once sun-ripened to a reddish-brown color does look very much like peppercorn.
Allspice in Cooking
The best quality allspice is grown in Jamaica, followed closely by Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico. This versatile spice features in several classic Jamaican recipes the most popular being Jerk seasoning, besides being a major ingredient in a variety of curries, desserts and soups. It even finds use in pickling and baking.
Health Benefits of Allspice
Allspice is also appreciated for its medicinal properties. Jamaicans use it as a remedy for stomach-aches and colds, while the Guatemalans make a revitalizing tea from the leaves of the allspice plant. The oil derived from the allspice berry has a sweet spicy aroma used in masculine scents. Not just that, the oil also contains a myriad variety of antifungal and antiseptic substances.
Allspice is a versatile but underutilized spice; the creative potential it has to offer to the culinary arts remains yet to be properly explored.
Article By: Health Recipes.com
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