Aframomum melegueta is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. The seeds of this plant, widely known as ‘Grains of Paradise,’ is a pungent spice with a flavour similar to black pepper with hints of citrus. Native to West Africa, which thanks to this spice has earned itself the name of Pepper Coast or even the Grain Coast, the spice is found in swampy areas with trumpet-shaped flowers that grow into pods. The seeds are reddish-brown in colour and about an eighth of an inch in size. A strong presence of aromatic ketones is responsible for the pungent, pepper-like taste of the seeds. Grains of Paradise have a multitude of purposes from flavoursome dishes to health benefits in both humans and animals.
When it comes to food, Grains of Paradise have a complex flavour profile, with hints of citrus, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, coriander, and juniper. Used primarily as a spice blend ingredient, Grains of Paradise, have a warm, earthy flavour, with a slow build-up of heat, and a slightly bitter aftertaste. The spice is extensively utilised in North and West African cuisines. Marinades for fish, and vegetable dishes can include spice.
Additionally, it makes for a good meat rub marinade. Grains of Paradise is also an excellent substitute for black pepper as the flavour isn’t as strong but just enough to add to the dish. Brines and soups can also be elevated with the ingredient when added at the end of the cooking process. The citrusy flavours in the spice can make it a good ingredient to add in salad dressings as well. Grains of Paradise tastes best when added both during the cooking process and in the end for garnish just before serving.
As for health, Grains of Paradise are a wonder spice. A natural antioxidant, it protects the body from viruses, and helps in the process of releasing toxins. Its anti-microbial properties, due to the presence of phenolic compounds, prevent the growth of common bacteria. Additionally, the analgesic components present in the seeds and plant extracts makes the spice a natural pain reliever, especially for issues such as arthritis, toothache, and stomach pain. The spice is also known to treat gastrointestinal problems. Grains of Paradise also has extraordinary dermatological properties such as the ability to treat or prevent scars and heal wounds.
The spice to a certain extent has also been known for use in veterinary practices. A correlation between cardiovascular health in lowland gorillas in the wild and in zoos has been made in terms of whether or not these animals’ diets include spice. When the lowland gorillas in the wild are exposed to the plant, they consume the seeds which may contribute to excellent cardiovascular health. Additionally, they use the plant as bedding and often chew up the leaves. However, those in the zoos are not exposed to the spice and it is not included in their diets which may contribute to their poor cardiovascular health. The demand got Grains of Paradise on the rise as they are increasingly favoured by chefs in gourmet cooking to replace the mighty black peppercorns, and by households due to their flavoursome properties and medicinal benefits. To get you started on your own journey with this special spice, we have a recipe for a refreshing drink, that will make you want to use this spice in everything possible.
Iced Chai Tea Latte
Ingredients:
- 2 cups strong black chai tea powder
- 1/2 cup whole green cardamom
- 1/4 cup whole cloves
- 1/4 cup dry ginger
- 1/4 cup broken cinnamon sticks
- 1 tbsp anise seeds
- 1 tbsp whole peppercorns
- 1 tbsp whole grains of paradise
- Honey
- Coconut milk
Instructions:
Prepare the blend by mixing all the dry ingredients and then store in an airtight container. To make the Chai Latte, in an empty pot add two tablespoons of the chai latte blend followed by four cups of boiling water. Cover this mixture and let it steep for five minutes. Strain this into a mug only halfway, and add honey to taste and two tablespoons of coconut milk. Stir and then add half a cup of ice. Voilà, you have an incredible Iced Chai Latte!