Quatre Épices

Quatre épices (French for 'four spices') is a finely ground mixture that consists of several spices and is used to season beef, pork, game, vegetables, casseroles, soups and stews.

Although called four spices, the actual number and type of spices may vary; however the base mixture usually contains the following spices in equal proportions:

1. White peppercorns
2. Nutmeg
3. Cloves
4. Ginger

Cinnamon may also be added either in place of or in addition to the ginger.

A sweet version of quatre épices may be made by substituting the white peppercorns with the same amount of allspice, which may then be used to flavour rich cakes and puddings.