Grains of Paradise is native to the coast of West Africa, stretching from Liberia to Nigeria. Also known as Alligator pepper, Atar, baking pepper, Guinea pepper, Melegueta pepper, and Roman pepper, it is still grown predominately in that same region, with Ghana as the main exporter.
These seeds are aromatic, spicy, and peppery with floral and citrus notes and pair well with allspice, cinnamon, and cloves.
Grind in a peppermill and use as a finisher. Try in place of cinnamon, cardamom, or black peppercorns. Flavor potatoes, eggplants, and lamb.
The seeds are red-brown, chestnut color and shaped like pyramids. They are an aromatic spice related to ginger and have a spicy, peppery flavor with a hint of jasmine, hazelnut and citrus. Grains of Paradise should be used as a finisher. To enjoy the full flavor of the spice, use it in your peppermill. Try using Grains of Paradise in place of cinnamon, cardamom or black peppercorns. Great with potatoes, eggplants or lamb.
