Allspice: the spice of the New World. Pimento only arrived in Europe in the 16th century where it was completely unknown until the Spanish introduced it. Today, pimento is used in cuisines around the world. Pimento has a clove-like aromatic smell and a spicy, hot, slightly sweet taste reminiscent of nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon and pepper. This is why pimento is also known as “allspice”. Pimento grains season marinades for game, beef and fish. Cucumbers, mixed pickles and cabbage dishes can also tolerate a bit of allspice. It is also included in many commercial seasoning mixes for sausages and pies.