Its warm, aromatic flavour is fully developed after frying in oil at a high temperature for a minute or so.

It is used in pasta sauces, Chinese and Thai stir-fry dishes and savoury Indian dishes.

The hardness and oil content of nutmeg means it is not particularly easy to grind in the domestic situation so pre-ground nutmeg provides a convenient alternative to whole nutmeg.

Caraway seed can be used whole or ground. It is widely used in Eastern european cooking, particularly in vegetable dishes and baking.

It gives a strong, warm, hot, aromatic flavour and should be used sparingly.

Use sparingly to give a ‘herby’ flavour to savoury dishes including omelettes, casseroles, pasta sauces and stews.