Grains of Paradise are a complex, aromatic ingredient beloved across Africa, especially in Ethiopian and West African cuisines.
Use whole or grind into stews and sauces for a heat that’s reminiscent of black pepper but beautifully herbal, floral and citrusy.
Highlights
Cooking tips
- Add a pinch of whole grains to rice or grains to infuse with flavor.
- Grind the grains to add to banana bread or other sweet baked goods.
- Grind and blend with chili, turmeric, cumin and paprika for a homemade berbere.
SOURCING

Our Grains of Paradise are grown by a cooperative of farmers in Bench Maji in southern Ethiopia.
Also known in West Africa as Melegueta pepper, they are related to cardamom and ginger, and they are harvested from pods produced by a trumpet-shaped purple flower.