Melegueta Pepper (Grains of Paradise)

1. Who am I?
Melegueta Pepper, also known as grains of paradise or maniguette, is a spice derived from the plant Aframomum melegueta, which belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. Native to the coastal regions of West Africa, such as Ghana, Ivory Coast, or Liberia, this precious spice was highly prized in Europe during the Middle Ages as a substitute for black pepper.

Its seeds, small in size and reddish-brown in color, are characterized by a warm and spicy flavor with hints of citrus, cardamom, and ginger. This unique aromatic profile makes it an exceptional ingredient, surprising with its intensity and subtlety.

2. Culinary uses
Melegueta Pepper is a real asset in cooking, complementing a wide variety of preparations:

• Stews and casseroles: Add subtle warmth to meats such as lamb or beef.
• Fish and seafood: Bring an exotic touch to marinades or sauces.
• Vegetables and chutneys: Enhance the flavors of grilled vegetables or sweet chutneys.
• Pastries and jams: Add it to gingerbread or jams for a unique flavor.
• Drinks: Incorporate it into infusions or cocktails for an original note.

Tip: Use freshly ground or coarsely crushed grains of paradise to maximize their aromatic potential.

3. A little history
Melegueta Pepper appeared in Europe in the 13th century thanks to Arab traders. Its nickname "grains of paradise" reflects the medieval imagination of an earthly paradise brimming with exotic and precious spices. Very popular in the Middle Ages, it was used to flavor dishes, drinks such as wine, and even some pastries. With the opening of sea routes to India in the 16th century, the use of maniguette declined in Europe, but it remains a staple spice in West Africa, where it is used both in cooking and traditional medicine.

4. Recipe ideas

• Yassa chicken with maniguette: Add a touch of maniguette to your yassa chicken. This spice will enhance the lemony sauce and caramelized onions with a slightly sweet and spicy note.
• Apple pie with maniguette: Incorporate a pinch of ground maniguette into your apple pie mixture. The spice blend will perfectly balance the sweetness of the fruits, providing a surprising flavor.
• Spiced pumpkin soup with maniguette: Enhance your pumpkin soup by adding freshly ground maniguette. Its spicy aroma pairs beautifully with the pumpkin's sweetness.
• Crab ravioli with maniguette sauce: Make homemade crab ravioli and create a creamy sauce lightly flavored with maniguette. An exotic and refined pairing.
• Beef stifado with maniguette: In this Mediterranean stew, replace classic pepper with maniguette. Its warm and spicy notes will elevate the slow-cooked beef with onions and spices.