Jamaican Allspice (Pimento) - Whole or Ground

Jamaican Allspice - Whole or Ground

Jamaican allspice, also called pimento, is made from the dried berries of Pimenta dioica. Its warm, aromatic flavor is often compared with cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and pepper, making it useful in both savory cooking and baking.

Choose Your Format

• Whole berries: Grind as needed, simmer in sauces or drinks, or add to pickling liquids and remove before serving.
• Ground allspice: Ready to measure into spice blends, marinades, baked goods, sauces, and stews.
• Package sizes: 1 ounce, 1/4 pound, 1 pound, 4 pounds, or 10 pounds

Flavor and Kitchen Uses

Allspice is a key flavor in Jamaican jerk seasoning and also works well in marinades, pepper sauces, curries, stews, rice dishes, pickles, sausages, cakes, cookies, fruit desserts, and warm beverages. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, because its aroma can be assertive.

Using Whole Berries

Crush or grind whole berries in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. For soups, stews, and drinks, whole berries may be added during cooking and strained out before serving.

Storage

Keep tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Use clean, dry utensils when measuring. Whole berries generally hold their aroma longer than ground spice once the package is opened.