spice from nutmeg crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "spice from nutmeg crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! We provide instant solutions, clear explanations, and handy tips to help you complete your puzzle. Discover the answers by letter count and enrich your crossword vocabulary.
Solutions for "spice from nutmeg crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MACE: A highly aromatic spice that is the outer lacy covering (aril) of the nutmeg seed. It has a warm, delicate flavor often compared to a blend of cinnamon and pepper, and is used in both sweet and savory dishes.
More About "spice from nutmeg crossword clue"
The clue "spice from nutmeg" refers to MACE, a fascinating spice with a rich history and unique flavor profile. Mace is derived from the aril of the nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans), a tropical evergreen native to the Moluccas, also known as the Spice Islands. After the nutmeg fruit splits open, the bright red, lacy aril is carefully removed from the seed (nutmeg itself) and then dried. As it dries, mace gradually loses its vibrant red color, turning a warm orange-yellow or brownish hue.
While sharing similar aromatic compounds with nutmeg, mace offers a more subtle, delicate, and complex flavor. It's often described as a warm, pungent, and slightly peppery spice with hints of pine and citrus. Its versatility allows it to be used in a wide array of culinary applications, from infusing flavor into custards, cakes, and fruit tarts to enhancing savory dishes like soups, stews, curries, and even pickling brines. Historically, mace was highly prized and sought after by explorers and traders, playing a significant role in global spice trade routes.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Botanical Connections: For clues involving plants or natural products, think about different parts of the plant. If "nutmeg" is the seed, what other parts might yield a spice? This often leads to answers like "mace" or "clove" (from flower buds).
- Check for Synonyms and Related Terms: Crossword constructors often use indirect phrasing. "Spice from nutmeg" isn't asking for "nutmeg" itself, but something derived from it. Brainstorm words related to the source.
- Utilize Letter Counts: Always pay close attention to the number of letters requested. If you have multiple potential answers, the letter count will quickly narrow down the possibilities. For "spice from nutmeg," if you thought of other words, the 4-letter count would immediately point to MACE.
- Think About Culinary Uses: Many spice clues can be solved by thinking about how the spice is used. What dishes is it in? What other spices is it commonly paired with?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mace the same as nutmeg?
No, mace and nutmeg are distinct spices, though they come from the same fruit of the Myristica fragrans tree. Nutmeg is the seed itself, while mace is the aril, a lacy red covering that surrounds the seed. They have similar aromatic profiles but mace is generally more delicate and subtle in flavor.
What are common uses for mace in cooking?
Mace is a versatile spice used in both sweet and savory dishes. It's often found in baked goods like cakes and custards, and in savory preparations such as curries, stews, and sauces. Its subtle flavor makes it a popular choice for dishes where a delicate warmth is desired, without overpowering other ingredients.
Can I substitute mace for nutmeg in recipes?
While mace and nutmeg share flavor notes and come from the same source, they are not exact substitutes. Mace has a lighter, more peppery, and slightly less sweet flavor than nutmeg. If a recipe specifically calls for mace, substituting with nutmeg might result in a slightly different, more intense flavor profile. It's generally best to use the specified spice for optimal results.