Grains of Paradise 
 
Harvested in: Ghana, West Africa
Flavor Profile: Fruity. Peppery. Floral. 
Certifications: Organic, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Kosher Certified 
 
I've tasted flavors from around the world, but nothing quite prepared me for the complex profile of Grains of Paradise. This small but mighty spice hails from West Africa, where it has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes and as a culinary staple.
 
With a name like "Grains of Paradise," you know you're in for something special. Also known as alligator pepper, these tiny seeds have a peppery heat that's tempered by a floral, citrusy sweetness. I found that their flavor profile is somewhere between black pepper and cardamom, with a bit of nutmeg thrown in for good measure.
 
But Grains of Paradise aren't just a flavor sensation – they have a rich history too. Traded by Arab merchants and prized by medieval Europeans, this spice has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine to treat everything from indigestion to fever. And as I discovered, it adds a unique kick to everything from roasted vegetables to seafood.