Grains of Paradise

Grains of paradise, also called alligator pepper or Guinea grains, are the dried seeds of Aframomum melegueta, a plant in the ginger family native to the swampy coastal regions of West Africa. The seeds have a warm, peppery taste with hints of citrus, cardamom, and ginger, setting them apart from plain black pepper.

They are a long-standing ingredient in West African stews, rice dishes, and marinades, and are sometimes included in North African spice blends such as Ras el Hanout. Outside Africa they season meats and poultry, and occasionally appear in baked goods, chocolate desserts, and craft spirits.

Grains of paradise pair well with beef, pork, poultry, game meats, and root vegetables, and combine easily with other warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cumin.