Nutmeg is the seed of a tropical fruit and has been used for thousands of years to flavor drinks, cakes, and soups. It's intensely fragrant and nutty and aside from those apple and pumpkin pies, use a pinch in potato soup, chowder, and creamy sauces like béchamel or alfredo. Add a bit to your country gravy for a boost of flavor you didn't know you were missing.