Grains de Paradis go by many names: Grains of Paradise, Guinea pepper, African pepper, Malaguette, or Malaquette. These precious peppercorns originate from the West African coast, from a region between Guinea and the Congo known as the Malaguette Coast. Their history stretches far back: In the Middle Ages, they were extremely popular in Europe, long before common pepper became the standard spice.
The fragrance profile enchants with intensely floral notes of rosewater, iris, and violet. The aromas are reminiscent of oriental sweets like rahat loukoum, creating a unique flavor experience. The taste is tart, bitter, and spicy, yet significantly milder and less fiery than black pepper, with elegant hints of cardamom.
At Eterna in Stäfa on Lake Zurich, you'll find this historic spice for your creative cooking. Grains of Paradise are the perfect, gentle alternative to pepper if you're looking for a rich, aromatic flavor without the intense heat. Grind or crush them lightly before use to release their full aroma.
They enhance soups, stews, and creamy sauces with their distinctive flavor. In marinades for meat and fish, they unfold their full character: combine the ground grains with other spices for chicken, beef, lamb, or fish. They harmonize wonderfully with vegetable dishes and rice, and are particularly well-suited to lamb, poultry, and pork.
The floral nuances transform every dish into an aromatic experience, bringing a touch of the exotic and a hint of history to your table on Lake Zurich. A spice that combines tradition and refined cuisine.