Whole Grains of Paradise

Origin & Story

Aframomum melegueta
Grains of paradise, also known as Melegueta or Guinea pepper, come from a ginger plant that grows along the hot, humid west coast of Africa. As early as the 13th century they reached Europe via the Sahara – long before true peppercorns from India were widespread. At that time they were considered extremely valuable and were poetically associated with the biblical paradise. From the 16th century their importance in global trade declined, yet in their West African homeland they remain a firm part of the cuisine and traditional medicine to this day.

Highlights

Visually unremarkable, but surprising in taste: grains of paradise seem almost odourless, yet when ground they unfold a warm, fine heat with a gentle citrus and nutty tone. Their aroma plays between delicate pepper, mild cardamom and a light cinnamon note – an elegance that subtly refines braised dishes, chutneys or even exotic baked goods. Lastingly aromatic, but never intrusive.

Quality

Our grains come from traditional cultivation on the west coast of Africa, where they are grown partly wild, partly in smallholder cooperatives. After harvest they are sun-dried and gently sorted – without any further treatment or preservation. The result is a pure natural spice with a rich, balanced aroma.

**The best spices have always inspired me to create new dishes. Only the best is good enough to reach the very top – for you, in your kitchen.
100% natural. Just the way I use it myself, every day.**

Tip from Tobias Funke

"Freshly and coarsely crushed in a mortar, grains of paradise develop their aroma best. For me they belong on Suya skewers – right after grilling – or as a surprising accent in chutneys."

Recommended use

• Coarsely crushed over Suya skewers or grilled meat
• In African spice blends with lamb, fish or vegetables
• In chutneys, ragouts or sauces with dark fruit notes
• As a subtle ingredient in gingerbread, spice cake or fruit jam

Recipe idea

Suya skewers with grains of paradise & peanut
View recipe

Origin / Ingredients

Grains of paradise (Aframomum melegueta) from West Africa
All ingredients are processed with craftsmanship at Manufaktur Funke.

Storage

Store in a dry place, away from light. Reseal well after opening. For full aroma, use freshly and coarsely crushed.