What Are Pimento Berries and Why Are They a Caribbean Must-Have?

If you’ve ever enjoyed a dish of jerk chicken , rice and peas , or a rich Caribbean stew , you’ve likely encountered one of the most essential spices in Caribbean cooking: pimento berries . These tiny, yet powerful, berries are a fundamental ingredient in many Caribbean dishes, known for their bold, aromatic flavor and their ability to elevate a wide range of recipes. At Cool Runnings Foods , we bring the authentic taste of pimento berries straight to Canadian kitchens, so you can recreate the vibrant flavors of the islands at home. What Are Pimento Berries? Pimento berries , often referred to as allspice , are the dried, unripe fruit of the Pimenta dioica tree. This tree is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of Mexico, and the berries themselves are harvested before they fully ripen. Once dried, they are used as a spice in various forms, including whole, ground, or as an essential component of seasoning blends. Pimento berries have a unique flavor profile that...