Ehuru or African Nutmeg

Content 

Has it ever crossed your mind to ask what creates that indefinable depth of taste in Nigerian food? Allow me to tell you about ehuru, our family spice that has been passed down for generations.

Hello, I’m amara a Nigerian woman,In the process of our upbringing, the smell of ehuru around our home signified preparedness for another meal to be prepared from our kitchens. It is served alongside the soup or used as the soup base and my mother used to tell me, “Ehuru is the life of our cooking.

So, What is Ehuru or African Nutmeg?

African nutmeg, scientifically known as Monodora myristica, is a spice that comes from the seed of a fruit similar to the custard apple. It’s encased in a hard shell, and once you crack it open, you’ll find the aromatic seed inside, ready to elevate your dishes.

This spice goes by different names depending on where you are:

English : African nutmeg, calabash nutmeg, Jamaica nutmeg, Ghana seed
Igbo: E

huru or ehu
Yoruba: Ariwo
Hausa: Gujiya dan miya

Why Do We Love Ehuru

African nutmeg, a warm and aromatic spice, offers a host of benefits beyond its delightful flavor. Packed with antioxidants, it helps shield our bodies from harmful free radicals, contributing to overall health and longevity. Its antibacterial properties make it a valuable addition to oral care, promoting dental hygiene and fresh breath. Beyond that, nutmeg has shown potential in mood enhancement and improving sleep quality, making it a versatile spice for both culinary and wellness purposes.

Please note that while nutmeg offers potential health benefits, it's essential to consume it in moderation as excessive amounts can be harmful.

Uses of African Nutmeg 

Nutrition values 

According to research from Asian Journal of Research in Biosciences

African nutmeg is a good source of essential B vitamins, including Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), and Niacin (B3), which play vital roles in energy metabolism. Additionally, it contains Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), an antioxidant that supports immune function.

African nutmeg are rich in essential minerals such as Calcium and Magnesium, crucial for bone health. They also provide a substantial amount of Sodium and Potassium, electrolytes essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

Tips 

• A little goes a long way. Ehuru has a strong, distinct flavor that can easily overpower other ingredients.
• Toasting the ehuru seed before grinding can enhance its flavor and aroma.
• Freshly ground ehuru offers the most intense flavor.
• The longer ehuru infuses in your dish, the stronger its flavor will be.
• Ehuru can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, adding depth and complexity.
• Store ground ehuru in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its flavor.