Introduction to Nutmegs: Indonesia's Treasured Spices
Nutmeg is native to Indonesia's tropical climate, where the ripe fruit resembles an apricot. When mature, it reveals:
- Vibrant crimson aril (known as mace)
- Glossy brown seed (the nutmeg)
Traditional Processing Method
Separate and sun-dry the mace
Slowly dry nutmegs for 6–8 weeks (turned twice daily)
Crack shells when kernels rattle
Hand-pick seeds for quality control