A warm-tasting spice made from the seed of a tropical tree, often used in baking and drinks. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and a strong smell.
From Middle English “notemuge,” from Old French “nois muguede,” likely from Latin “nux” (nut) + a word of unknown origin. The spelling and pronunciation simplified over time into “nutmeg.”
Nutmeg was once so rare and valuable that wars were fought over the tiny islands where it grew. Today we casually sprinkle on desserts a spice that once helped shape global trade and colonial history.
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