Cloves, Ground Organic 50g

Cloves, Ground Organic 50g

Ground cloves are made from dried flower buds of the clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum), which is native to Indonesia but widely grown in India, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, and Zanzibar. They have a strong, warm, and slightly bitter flavour with a sweet undertone. Cloves are highly aromatic and often used in small amounts to add depth and warmth to dishes.

Flavour Profile:

• Taste: Warm, intense, slightly sweet, with a bold, almost medicinal sharpness.
• Aroma: Strong, spicy, and sweet with hints of camphor and pepper.
• Heat: Moderate warmth with a pungent aftertaste.

Common Uses for Ground Cloves

1. Baking and Desserts:

• Spiced Cakes and Cookies: Used in gingerbread, fruitcakes, pumpkin pie, and spice cookies.
• Mulled Wine and Hot Drinks: A key ingredient in mulled wine, spiced cider, and chai tea.
• Puddings and Compotes: Enhances the flavour of rice pudding, apple compote, and stewed fruits.

2. Savoury Dishes:

• Curries and Stews: Used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African curries, where it adds warmth and depth.
• Rice and Grain Dishes: Often found in biryani, pilafs, and spiced couscous dishes.
• Meat Rubs and Marinades: Complements lamb, beef, pork, and game meats, especially in barbecue rubs.
• Vegetable Dishes: Enhances roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, and pumpkin.

3. Spice Blends and Seasonings:

• Pumpkin Spice Mix: A key component in blends used for autumn baking and lattes.
• Chinese Five Spice: Adds depth to the classic Chinese spice mix.
• Garam Masala: Found in Indian spice blends for curries and stews.

4. Pickling and Preserves:

• Used in pickling brines for vegetables like cucumbers and onions.
• Adds flavour to chutneys and relishes.

5. Sauces and Condiments:

• Found in Worcestershire sauce and some barbecue sauces.
• Used in gravies and meat sauces, particularly in French and Caribbean cuisine.

6. Health and Herbal Uses:

• Soothing Teas: Often used in herbal teas for its warming and antimicrobial properties.
• Oral Health: Common in natural toothpaste and mouth rinses due to its antibacterial benefits.

Health Benefits of Ground Cloves:

1. Antibacterial Properties: Helps fight bacteria and improve oral health.
2. Aids Digestion: Can help reduce bloating, indigestion, and nausea.
3. Rich in Antioxidants: Protects against cell damage and inflammation.
4. Pain Relief: Used in traditional medicine for toothaches and muscle pain.
5. Boosts Immune Function: Helps fight colds and flu due to its antimicrobial properties.