Mace is a spice derived from the same tree as nutmeg, the Myristica fragrans. It’s the dried, lacy covering of the nutmeg seed.
While it may look different from nutmeg, mace shares similar flavor notes. It has a warm, slightly sweet, and slightly bitter flavor, with a hint of pepperiness. Mace is often used in combination with nutmeg to enhance flavor and aroma in various dishes.
It’s commonly used in:
- Sweet dishes: puddings, cakes, and cookies
- Savory dishes: curries, stews, and sauces
Like nutmeg, mace is also used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits.
In case you’re wondering, mace spray used in self-defense is not made of the mace spice discussed here.
The term “mace” in the context of self-defense spray is actually a brand name, similar to Kleenex for tissues.
Mace spray is a type of pepper spray that uses capsaicin, a chemical compound found in chili peppers, as its active ingredient. When sprayed, it causes intense burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and mouth, temporarily incapacitating an attacker.
So, while the two “maces” might share a name, they are completely different substances with distinct uses.
Gemini AI, a digital mind and language model, offered this explanation.
