Grains of Paradise - African grains for seasoning

Grains of paradise are not easy to obtain: the seeds of a perennial, reed-like plant with showy, trumpet-shaped flower, indigenous to the tropical coast of West Africa, from Liberia along the Gulf of Guinea to Nigeria.

Store in an airtight container they will keep their flavor for several years. Grind them as needed. Grains of paradise are excellent in braised lamb dishes,and with eggplant, potatoes, poultry, rice squash, tomatoes and root vegetables. Grind them before use and add at the last stage of cooking.