Grains of Paradise

Grains of paradise are the seeds of a reed-like herbaceous plant that is a member of the ginger family and native to western Africa. These peppery, hot seeds resemble cardamom seeds and make an appearance in the North African spice mix Ras el Hanout, otherwise they remain exclusive to the cooking of western Africa, where they are highly prized and used to season meat and game and in herbal remedies. Available: specialist spice suppliers.