Allspice

Even though its name suggests a mixture of spices, All Spice is the single berry from the Jamaican Bayberry Tree, which is native to the Caribbean and Central America. When ground the berries have a flavor similar to cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger and pepper. All Spice is great in pumpkin pie, banana bread, and cookies.

Annual member of the parsley family, native to the Eastern Mediterranean region. Tiny, gray-green egg shaped seeds of the anise plant that have a licorice flavor and are used for both sweet and savory dishes. Same wonderful spice as anise whole, except anise seed ground delivers flavor quicker and blends easier. Anise seed is featured in cakes, breads and liquors. Also wonderful with fish, shellfish, marinades, fruits and vegetables.

Certainly one of the prettiest spices. The whole perfect stars are really a beautiful wonder of nature, with eight points and a seed in each point. The anise plant has a strong licorice flavor and is used for both sweet and savory dishes. Anise star adds a lovely flavor and appearance floating in a cup of tea. Also great for baking! Try using star anise in various pork, soup, chicken, and seafood dishes. In the Middle East and India it is popular in stews as well. Often reserved for craft use. Anise star makes an attractive dinner garnish. They also add a lovely flavor and appearance floating in a cup of tea. The Chinese used star anise in many pork, chicken, and seafood dishes. Often reserved for craft use.