The main difference between allspice and mixed spice is that allspice is a single spice that has a specific flavor profile, while mixed spice is a blend of spices that can include allspice and other seasonings.
Allspice and mixed spice are two spices that have a warm and spicy note. Both have flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pepper. However, it’s important to note that these are two distinct spices, and you shouldn’t use them interchangeably.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Allspice
– Definition, Spices, Use
2. What is Mixed Spice
– Definition, Spices, Use
3. Difference Between Allspice and Mixed Spice
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Allspice, Mixed Spice
What is Allspice
Allspice is a spice we make from the dried berries of the Pimenta dioica plant, which is native to the Caribbean and Central America. Jamaica pepper, pimenta, and myrtle pepper are some other names for allspice. The berries are picked when they are green and then sun-dried until they turn brown.
Allspice has a warm and pungent aroma, with a flavor that is a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. People often use it in savory dishes, such as stews, curries, and marinades, as well as in sweet dishes, such as pies and cakes. Some also use it in pickling and preserving.
Furthermore, you can find allspice in whole berry form, as well as in ground form. You should store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to preserve its flavor and aroma. Allspice is a common ingredient in Caribbean and Middle Eastern cuisine. Moreover, there are many main dishes in Arabic cuisine that use allspice as the only spice.
What is Mixed Spice
Mixed spice is a blend of spices commonly used in British cuisine. It’s somewhat similar to the pumpkin pie spice in the US. The exact blend of spices can vary, but it typically includes a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Interestingly, it also contains some amount of allspice. But you cannot generally replace mixed spice with allspice as the former is a blend of spices.
Cooks often use it in baking, particularly in recipes for cakes, cookies, pies, and Christmas treats. Some cooks also use this spice blend in savory dishes, such as stews and roasts. Mixed spice is typically readily available throughout the year. But, it may be difficult to find outside of the UK. The flavor profile of British mixed spice is similar to that of gingerbread spice, with warm, sweet, and spicy notes. It is an ideal seasoning to use in fall and winter dishes.
Difference Between Allspice and Mixed Spice
Definition
Allspice is a spice made from the dried berries of the Pimenta dioica plant, which is native to the Caribbean and Central America. Mixed spice, on the other hand, is a blend of spices that contains a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves.
Spices
While allspice is just one spice, mixed spice is a blend of spices that include allspice as one ingredient.
Cuisine
Allspice is a common ingredient in Caribbean and Middle Eastern cuisine, whereas mixed spice is typically an ingredient in British cuisine.
Use
Moreover, people use allspice in savory dishes, such as stews, curries, and marinades, as well as in sweet dishes, such as pies and cakes. Whereas, people use mixed spice in baking cakes, cookies, and pies, especially during Christmas.
Conclusion
The main difference between allspice and mixed spice is that allspice is a single spice that has a specific flavor profile, while mixed spice is a blend of spices that can include allspice and other seasonings. It’s not possible to replace mixed spice with just allspice alone.
Reference:
1. “What Is Mixed Spice?” The Spruce Eats.
2. “Allspice.” Wikipedia. Wikipedia Foundation.
Image Courtesy:
1. “AllspiceSeeds” (CC BY 2.5) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Mixed spices 01 Pengo” (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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