Didim - peace seed (seeds)

Didim or djinndim is an 8-10 cm long cardamom-like fruiting capsule. This cardamom grows in Cameroon, in the national park Karup in the humid environment of the Kemo Falls. The irregularly shaped seeds have a noticeable citrus flavor, that of mandarin.

Also available unpeeled

The didim is closely related to paradise grain and mbongô, both of which we supply. Didim is also a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) and is also known by names such as African jujube, peace seed, or, in French, "graines de la paix." It has been an important fruit in Bamikele culture for centuries. The Bamikele live primarily in western Cameroon, some distance from Penja (known for its penja pepper). The Bamikele are said to have migrated west from Egypt for religious reasons and settled in the Tikar region, later spreading across large parts of western Cameroon.

In the annual Ndop ritual, the didim is indispensable as a symbol of reconciliation. This is where the commonly used term "seed of peace" comes from, although "graines de bénédiction" would be more appropriate.

The plant—Aframomum camerounais—grows like all gingers in a warm, moist environment and prefers some shade. The rhizome grows close to the ground. The plant grows to about 2 meters tall and has elongated and pointed leaves, like bamboo. Trumpet-like flowers form close to the ground, appearing to emerge directly from the ground, but are on stalks. They are 15 cm long and light purple, and quickly fall off to make way for large, reddish-brown pods (10 cm). These contain reddish-brown seeds in a jelly-like liquid that is completely absent in the dry fruit capsule.

Smell and taste

Didim is a spice with a forest and wet woody aroma. Its initial taste is primarily woody—reminiscent of licorice. Afterwards a pleasant citrus note emerges, of mandarin.

The seeds are eaten whole, ground, or in a mortar. Didim is delicious with lamb dishes, zucchini, potatoes, and eggplant.

Features:

• 100% seeds of the Aframomum camerounais
• origin: West Cameroon

Assortment

• available in glass (45 and 60 grams), stand-up pouch and test tube (10 ml)
• larger quantities on request

General advice

• grind didim at the last minute to maximize the scent
• store the seeds in a dark, dry and cool place
• best before November 2027 (11-2027)
• the expiration date is an indication

Batch number

The batch number helps us track which batch an item originates from. It's listed on the packing slip and invoice.