Nutmeg-and-5-Other-Holiday-Spices
December 7, 2011
•Le Cordon Bleu
•Le Cordon Bleu
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Nutmeg and 5 Other Holiday Spices
One of the best things about the Holiday’s is all the baked goods. Whether homemade or purchased at the store these sweet confections stir up memories of childhood and family. Whether it is the sweet smell of Vanilla or the sharp bite of cinnamon, none of these sweets would be the same without the addition of spices. If you are interested in taking baking classes at a pastry school or just want to improve your baking at home here are 6 holiday spices you will want to acquaint yourself with.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is the seed of an evergreen tree that commonly grows in Indonesia. It is at its very best when freshly grated but can also be purchased in powder form. While we usually think of pumpkin pie or hot chocolate, nutmeg is just as great an addition to savory items like chowder and potato dishes.
Vanilla Bean
Cultivated from the orchid plant, vanilla beans are one of the most precious spices in the world. While imitation vanilla extract is readily available and inexpensive, you will learn at any pastry school that working with the real thing is worth the extra cost. Around the holidays try adding vanilla beans to fruit, milk or egg dishes.
Ginger
Available in both fresh and powdered form, ginger is a common ingredient in holiday dishes. Fresh ginger pairs well with a wide variety of vegetables including zucchini and artichokes where as the more pungent powdered ginger works well with squash, sweet potatoes and of course sweet confections such as the holiday favorite gingerbread.
Cinnamon
The main ingredient in pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon is the bark of an evergreen tree that is peeled off and rolled into sticks to dry. It is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of sweet and savory dishes and is extremely popular around the holidays. It works especially well with fruit baked goods such as apple pie but it also works well in poultry and egg dishes.
Star Anise
Similar in flavor but not related to anise, star anise has a unique and intriguing flavor. Star Anise is best used to flavor chicken, fish and seafood dishes but can also be used to compliment sweet dishes made with pumpkin or tropical fruits.
Cloves
The dried flower buds of the clove tree, cloves are an essential holiday spice. While in many homes they are used in decorations they are also a wonderful addition to glazed hams, sweet potatoes, pumpkin dishes and apples. If you are considering taking baking classes, cloves are an essential spice to familiarize yourself with this holiday season.
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