What's the Difference Between Nutmeg and Mace Blade? 

Slofoodgroup Team May 15, 2021

What's the difference between nutmeg and mace?

Nutmeg and mace are sibling spices! Both mace and nutmeg are derived from the nutmeg tree, which is native to the Banda Islands and the Caribbean. The pit of the fruit that grows on the nutmeg tree is nutmeg, and the covering on the seeds of the fruit is mace. 

While mace and nutmeg come from the same tree, they're very different spices. For one, nutmeg is a lot less costly than mace. That's mainly due to the availability of the pits versus the arils of the fruit. Because nutmeg is so plentiful, recipes typically call for nutmeg as opposed to mace. Additionally, mace has a spicier, more intense flavor than nutmeg—in fact, mace is quite similar to black pepper. 

What is nutmeg, and how can I use it? 

Nutmeg is most often found in baking recipes for cookies and cakes, but you can also use it to spice up stews, soups, meats, fruits, and preserves. One of the most popular uses for nutmeg is on top of holiday eggnog. Nutmeg works well in recipes that also call for allspice, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, pepper, or thyme. Since it's such a versatile spice, nutmeg can be used in sweet and savory preparations. To get the most out of your nutmeg, purchase them whole and grate them fresh when a recipe calls for it. Typically, one whole nutmeg will yield two or three teaspoons of the spice. 

Does nutmeg offer health benefits?

Like many spices, nutmeg offers several health benefits. Using nutmeg can help relieve pain or soothe indigestion. Nutmeg can also provide cognitive clarity and help to detoxify your organs and skin. The spice is also said to help with oral issues, reducing insomnia, and preventing leukemia. 

How can I use mace, and does it offer health benefits? 

Mace is another common baking spice most commonly found in doughnuts, cakes, and cookies. Like nutmeg, you can also use mace in savory dishes like eggs, sausage, stuffing, or veal. Though they're not the same, mace does pair well with the same spices as nutmeg. Mace also provides several health benefits. Incorporating mace into your cooking can help improve your digestion, bust stress, boost blood flow, and protect your kidneys. If you're feeling under the weather, mace can help alleviate cold and flu symptoms, too. 

Are you ready to start using more mace and nutmeg in your kitchen? Slofoodgroup offers Whole Nutmeg from Sri Lanka and Sri Lankan Mace Blade. Check out our nutmeg recipes and mace recipes to see what you want to whip up first!