Alligator Pepper (Atare) – Whole Pods, Grains of Paradise

Alligator pepper is a West African spice sold as whole, dried pods packed with tiny aromatic seeds. It's known as atare in Yoruba and ose oji in Igbo, and the seeds of its best-known species, Aframomum melegueta, are sold worldwide as grains of paradise. Warm, peppery and slightly citrusy, it's essential for Nigerian pepper soup and a traditional part of kola nut ceremonies.

Why shoppers choose our alligator pepper

• Whole dried pods, the traditional form, with seeds inside for maximum freshness
• Bold, aromatic flavor: peppery heat with hints of citrus, cardamom and ginger
• Buy 1, 2, 5 or 10 to stock up and save
• Ships in about 2 business days across the U.S., or pick up at our Chicago store

How to use alligator pepper

1. Crack the pod and remove the seeds.
2. Grind or crush the seeds with a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
3. Add to pepper soup, stews, jollof rice, suya spice, marinades or spice rubs. A little goes a long way.
4. For ceremonies, the pod is traditionally presented with kola nut to welcome guests.

Alligator pepper vs. grains of paradise

They are the same kind of spice in different forms. Grains of paradise are the loose seeds of Aframomum melegueta, used in Western cooking, gin and craft brewing. Alligator pepper is the West African market name for the whole dried pod, which may be A. melegueta or a close ginger-family relative such as A. daniellii or A. citratum. They are used the same way in the kitchen, and the whole pod keeps the seeds fresher and more aromatic.

Alligator pepper is not grains of selim (Xylopia aethiopica, uda), a different spice from an unrelated tree. Read our full guide: What Is Alligator Pepper? Grains of Paradise, Uses & Benefits.

Popular recipes with alligator pepper

• Nigerian goat meat or catfish pepper soup
• Suya spice (yaji) blends
• Ghanaian light soup and stews
• Spiced tea and traditional drinks

More West African spices

Also try Atakou alligator pepper seeds, uziza seeds and Asiko pepper soup mix, or shop all spices and seasonings.

Storage

Store whole pods in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Whole pods keep their aroma for many months; grind the seeds just before use.

Frequently asked questions

What does alligator pepper taste like?

Warm and peppery like black pepper, with floral, citrus and cardamom-like notes and a gentle heat.

Is alligator pepper the same as grains of paradise?

Close to it. Grains of paradise are the seeds of Aframomum melegueta. Alligator pepper is the whole pod, which may be A. melegueta or a closely related species. Both are used the same way in cooking.

Is alligator pepper the same as grains of selim?

No. Grains of selim come from Xylopia aethiopica, a tree in a different plant family, and have a resinous, nutmeg-like flavor.

What is alligator pepper called in Nigeria?

Atare (Yoruba), ose oji (Igbo) and ntuen ibok (Efik and Ibibio).

Where can I buy alligator pepper near me?

In Chicago, pick it up at Yado African & Caribbean Market, 1651 E 87th St, Chicago, IL 60617. Anywhere else in the U.S., order online for fast shipping.

How much alligator pepper should I use?

Start with the seeds of half a pod for a pot of soup, then adjust to taste. It's strong, so a small amount adds plenty of flavor.