Grains of paradise

Grains of paradise seeds are about the size of cardamom seeds and the flavor is spicy, warm and slightly bitter. The seeds are used to flavor food and in some regions they are chewed to "warm" the body. To use this spice, crush some grains with garlic and vinegar, and then rub over chicken, pork or lamb before roasting. This spice can be used as a substitute for black pepper.

Other less common names for this spice include: Ginny Grains, Ginny Papper, Graines, Greater Cardamom, Grenes, Guinea Grains, Guinea Seeds.

Where To Buy

This spice is harder to find in many local grocery stores.  You can find it easily online including at Amazon.com: Grains Of Paradise

Substitute For Grains of Paradise

If you're looking for a substitute for grains of paradise, here are some suitable alternatives: Per each teaspoon needed, you can substitute:

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper.  Clearly this is the easiest to find but maybe not the best substitute.
• OR - 1/2 teaspoon sansho powder (prickly ash powder).  This can be found in most any Japanese market or other Asian grocery store.
• OR - 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom + 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper