Pimento Whole

Whole Pimento (Allspice) – Warm, Aromatic & Versatile Spice

Add rich, warming flavour to your cooking with our Whole Pimento, also known as Whole Allspice. Despite its name, allspice is not a blend of spices—it’s the dried berry of the Pimenta dioica tree, prized for its unique flavour that combines notes of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and pepper.

A staple in Middle Eastern, Caribbean, Mediterranean and international cuisines, whole allspice is perfect for seasoning meats, flavouring rice, pickling vegetables and infusing soups and stews.

What is pimento (allspice)?

Pimento, commonly known as allspice, is the dried, unripe berry of an evergreen tree native to the Caribbean and Central America. It gets its name because its flavour resembles a combination of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and black pepper—all in one spice.

Whole allspice berries are often used during cooking to slowly release their warm, aromatic flavour and can also be freshly ground when needed for maximum freshness.

Is pimento the same as allspice?

Yes. Pimento and allspice are two names for the same spice. In many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean households it is commonly referred to as pimento, while in Australia and many English-speaking countries it is more often called allspice.

What does allspice taste like?

Allspice has a warm, fragrant flavour with hints of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and a mild peppery finish. It adds depth and complexity to both savoury and sweet dishes without being overly spicy.

What is whole allspice used for?

Whole allspice is commonly used in:

• Rice dishes
• Slow-cooked beef and lamb
• Soups and stews
• Pickling vegetables
• Homemade stocks and broths
• Marinades
• Braised meats
• Curries
• Mulled drinks
• Baking and desserts

It can be added whole during cooking and removed before serving, or freshly ground for a more intense flavour.

How do you use whole allspice?

Whole allspice berries are ideal for slow-cooked recipes where they gradually release their flavour. Add a few berries to soups, stews, stocks, rice or marinades, then remove them before serving.

You can also grind whole allspice using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle whenever a recipe calls for ground allspice.

Can I grind whole allspice?

Yes. Many cooks prefer buying whole allspice because it stays fresher for longer. Simply grind the amount you need using a spice grinder, coffee grinder or mortar and pestle to enjoy the freshest flavour and aroma.

Is whole allspice spicy?

No. Despite its name, allspice is not hot like chilli. It has a warm, aromatic flavour with gentle peppery notes but very little heat.

How should whole allspice be stored?

Store whole allspice in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Whole spices retain their flavour and aroma longer than ground spices, making them an excellent pantry staple.

Why buy Whole Pimento (Allspice) from OC Fine Foods?

At OC Fine Foods, we carefully source premium Mediterranean and Middle Eastern pantry essentials to help you create authentic flavours at home. Our Whole Pimento (Allspice) is selected for its exceptional aroma and quality, making it ideal for everyday cooking, traditional family recipes and special occasions.

Whether you’re preparing fragrant rice, slow-cooked meats or homemade pickles, whole allspice is an essential spice that brings warmth and depth to every dish.