(Myristica fragrans) A tropical evergreen native to Indonesia but now cultivated in other tropical areas, Nutmeg is the seed (nut) from the fruit of the tree. Used primarily for its culinary benefits, nutmeg is an important ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. It is used in pies, cakes, pastries and cookies as well as sprinkled on coffee drinks, eggnog, and some cocktails, and used to create delicious mulled cider and wine. Nutmeg also adds dimension to potato dishes, meats, soups, sauces (like béchamel) and pasta dishes (like lasagna or ravioli).

In addition to its fantastic taste, nutmeg is also beneficial to the digestive system, helping to stimulate the appetite and to help with gas or feelings of nausea.

Caffeine Free

Here in Connecticut (aka the Nutmeg State) there are a few different versions of the origin of this nickname. One story claims that the traders of Connecticut were shrewd in selling nutmeg to unsuspecting southerners. Instead of selling nutmeg they whittled pieces of wood that looked like nutmeg. Another version though claims that the Connecticut nutmeg sellers did in fact sell actual nutmeg, however, the southerners did not know that they needed to grate the whole nutmeg and therefore thought they were made from wood.

Sweet Potato Bread

Ingredients:
2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
2 Tbsp blackstrap molasses
½ cup honey
½ cup maple syrup
3 jumbo eggs
½ cup butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla

2 ½ cups whole wheat flour
1 cup wheat germ
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp cloves
½ tsp allspice
1 tsp nutmeg

1 cup walnuts, chopped

Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350°. Grease 2 loaf pans.

In an electric mixer, mix all wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, blend all dry ingredients (except the walnuts). Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir just until blended. Add the walnuts and stir. Pour into prepared loaf pans and bake approximately 45 minutes.

Please Note: The information given here has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.