Grains of Paradise

"Grains of Paradise" is the colloquial name given to the pungent seeds of Aframomum Melegueta, a reed-like plant in the ginger family. It is also known as "Guinea Grains," or "Melegueta Pepper." 

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The seeds are brown to black, and they impart a peppery flavor with hints of citrus. Their name refers to their place of origin in Central-East Africa. The seeds were commonly exported to Europe from Ghana, known at the time as the "Gold Coast," a French colony. 

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Source: "Grains of Paradise," Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2014, https://www.britannica.com/topic/grains-of-paradise

Accessed: November 25, 2018