Mace (Javetri)

Mace spice is a dried, outer aril, enveloping firmly around the nutmeg kernel. Nutmeg kernel and mace arils indeed are two separate spice products of same nutmeg fruit. However, spice-mace has characteristically composed higher concentration of certain essential oils and features refined, yet more intense aroma than nutmeg.

While mace can be used in sweet dishes similar to nutmeg, this spice really shines in savory dishes. It’s often used in spice blends for flavoring meat dishes, stews, curries, savory sauces, homemade pickles, and is a common ingredient in Indian cuisine.

The flavor can become bitter if it’s cooked too long, so it’s best to add mace toward the end of cooking as a finishing spice.