nutmeg
Nutmeg comes from the seed of a tree native to Indonesia. Both the inner, and outer part of the seed can be used in cooking. The interior part, what we know as nutmeg, has a sweet and spicy flavor. The interior part called mace, has a different color and flavor.
Nutmeg can be used in both sweet and savory dishes such as bechamel sauce, and Swiss fondue, to add depth of flavor.
Throughout the ages, back to the Roman Empire, nutmeg has had a place in history. Although it hails from Indonesia, it was Arab merchants who slowly brought this useful nut to the western hemisphere.
Nutmeg became such a valuable commodity, that in the 14th century, a pound was worth the equivalent of the cost of three sheep.
For the Dutch its trade of was as good as gold. Unfortunately for the harvesting of this valuable nut the lives of many natives were compromised, and eventually lost.
This is a key spice to have in your cabinet. Whether you are baking sweets, or making a savory dish.
Enjoy! Also try mace.