Didim - peace seed (seeds)

Didim or djinndim is an 8-10 cm long cardamom-like pod. This cardamom grows in Cameroon, in the national park. Carup in the damp environment of the Kemo Waterfalls. The irregularly shaped seeds have a remarkable citrus flavor, that of mandarin.

Also available unpeeled

The didim is closely related to grains of paradise 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, at some distance from Penja (known for Penja pepper). The Bamikele are said to have migrated westward from Egypt for religious reasons and settled in the Tikar region, subsequently 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 name 'seed of peace' comes from, although 'graines de bénédiction' would be more appropriate.

The plant – Aframomum camerounais – grows, like all gingers, in a warm, humid environment and prefers some shade. The rhizome grows just below the surface of the ground. The plant reaches a height of about 2 meters and has elongated and pointed leaves, like bamboo. Trumpet-like flowers form close to the ground; they appear to emerge directly from the soil but stand on stalks. They are 15 cm long and light purple, and soon fall off to make way for large reddish-brown pods. These contain reddish-brown seeds in a jelly-like fluid, which is entirely absent in the dry capsule but is recognizable in the form of membranes.

Scent and taste

Didim is a spice smelling of forest and wet wood. It tastes primarily woody at first – associated with licorice – Afterwards, a pleasant citrus note of mandarin emerges..

The seeds are eaten raw, ground, or crushed. Didim is delicious with lamb dishes, zucchini, potatoes, and eggplant.

Assortment

• available in glass (45 or 60 grams of your choice) and stand-up pouch (various weight classes)
• glarger quantities than shown on request

Save

• batch number **220335
• best before November 2027 (11-2027)