Mace Vs Nutmeg: How To Tell Them Apart?

You’ve probably seen them both before, but now you want to know how to tell them apart.

The difference between nutmeg and mace is subtle, but it matters.


Maces are dried berries from the fruit of the Myristica fragrans tree, native to Indonesia and Malaysia.

They are also known as nutmegs.

Mace has a strong flavor and aroma, and is commonly used as a spice or condiment.

Nutmeg is a seed pod from the Myristicaceae family, native to India and Sri Lanka.

It has a milder taste and aroma than mace

Quick Facts

Mace is the dried inner bark of the nutmeg tree, while nutmeg is the seed of the same plant. Both mace and nutmeg are used in culinary applications but they differ in flavor and aroma.
Nutmeg is sweeter and milder in taste compared to mace. It is usually added to desserts and baked goods.
Mace is stronger in flavor and aroma. It is usually added in savory dishes such as soups, stews, sauces, gravies, meats, poultry, seafood, vegetables, and salads.

What Is Mace?

Mace is the dried outer skin of the nutmeg fruit. Nutmeg seeds are called “mace” because the word “mace’ comes from the Arabic word “maqas” meaning nut.

What Is Nutmeg?

Nutmeg is a spice used in many dishes around the world. It is native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa. It was introduced to Europe during the 16th century. In India, nutmeg is known as ‘kala meenakshi’ black goddess. It is believed that the black color of the nutmeg comes from the blood of Shiva, who was killed by his wife Parvati.

Difference Between Mace And Nutmeg

Mace is the dried inner covering of the nutmeg fruit. It is usually sold ground into powder form. Nutmeg is the seed of the fruit. It is slightly larger than mace and has a distinctive flavor. Nutmeg is used in baking, desserts, sauces, soups, stews, and other savory dishes.

Can You Substitute Nutmeg For Mace?

Yes, you can substitute nutmeg for mace. However, if you are using mace in a recipe that calls for nutmeg, you will need to reduce the quantity of mace called for in the recipe by half.

What Does Mace Taste Like?

Mace is a spice used in many dishes. It is similar to nutmeg but has a stronger flavor.
How To Make A Spicy Curry Sauce Without Mace?
Answer: In order to make a spicy curry sauce without mace, you will need to use turmeric instead. Turmeric is a root that grows in India and Southeast Asia. It is known for its medicinal properties and is often added to curries.

What Herbs Work With Mace And Nutmeg?

Herbs such as cumin, coriander, fenugreek, ginger, garlic, lemongrass, mint, mustard seeds, paprika, pepper, rosemary, sage, thyme, and turmeric are great spices to pair with mace and nutmeg.

Fun Facts About Mace And Nutmeg

Mace and nutmeg are two of the most popular spices used in cooking today. Both spices have been around since ancient times. In fact, they were originally called “mystery spices” because no one knew what they were until they were discovered. Today, we know that these spices are related to clove and cinnamon.

What Is Mace From Nutmeg Used For?

Mace is a spice that comes from the inner bark of the myrtle tree. It has a strong flavor and aroma. It is used in many dishes such as meat stews, soups, sauces, breads, desserts, and drinks.
Nutmeg is a seed found inside the fruit of the evergreen tropical plant Myristica fragrans. It is native to Indonesia and Malaysia. It is used in baking, candy making, beverages, and savory dishes.
How To Use Mace And Nutmeg

Is all nutmeg the same?

Mace is a spice used in many dishes and recipes. It is a dried fruit from the Myrtus communis plant. Nutmeg is a spice derived from the seed of the myrtle tree. Both spices are similar but nutmeg is slightly sweeter.

How can you tell if its nutmeg?

Mace is the dried inner covering of the nutmeg fruit while nutmeg is the seed itself. Both are used in cooking but only nutmeg is used for flavoring. Nutmeg is usually ground into powder form while mace is used whole.

What does nutmeg look like?

Yes, there is. It is called “Nutmeg Extract”. This product is used to flavor foods such as ice cream, cake, cookies, and other baked goods. Nutmeg extract is available in liquid form and powder form. It comes from the seed of the fruit of the nutmeg tree. It is extracted from the dried pulp of the nutmeg fruit. It is usually added to recipes during baking.

Is there fake nutmeg?

Nutmeg looks like a round ball about 1 inch in diameter. It is used as a spice and flavor enhancer in many dishes. Nutmeg is native to the West Indies and Central America. It is usually ground into powder form and added to sauces, soups, stews, breads, desserts, and drinks. It is also used in baking.

How can you tell the difference between mace and nutmeg?

Nutmeg is used in many dishes such as pumpkin pie, apple pie, and other desserts. Nutmeg is a spice that comes from the fruit of the Myristica fragrans tree. It is a hard, dry, aromatic seed pod that contains a single seed. The seeds are usually dried and ground into powder form. In addition to being used in baking, nutmeg is also used in savory dishes.

Can you substitute nutmeg for mace?

Nutmeg is a spice used in many dishes and desserts. It is usually added to baked goods such as breads, muffins, pies, cookies, and cakes. Nutmeg is also used in savory dishes such as soups, sauces, stews, casseroles, and chowders.