
Clove
Clove is a highly aromatic spice known for its warm, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor profile. It is derived from the dried flower buds of the clove tree, boasting a dark brown color and a hard, woody texture. Cloves are a staple in both sweet and savory dishes, offering a distinctive taste that enhances baked goods, curries, and beverages. Rich in essential oils, cloves are prized for their intense fragrance and are often used in spice blends and marinades. This versatile spice is also celebrated for its medicinal properties and historical significance in global cuisines.
Common Uses
- Add whole cloves to simmering soups, stews, or broths to infuse a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Use ground cloves in baking recipes like gingerbread, pumpkin pie, or spice cakes for a rich, festive taste.
- Incorporate cloves into spice rubs for meats such as pork, lamb, or chicken to create a bold and flavorful crust.
- Brew cloves with tea or mulled wine to create a comforting, spiced beverage perfect for cold weather.
- Combine cloves with other spices like cinnamon and nutmeg in marinades for vegetables or fruits to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Use cloves in pickling recipes to add depth and complexity to preserved vegetables or fruits.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
6.0kcal (0.3%)
Protein
0.2g (0.4%)
Carbs
1.4g (0.51%)
Sugars
0.1g (0.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.1g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
6.0kcal (0.3%)
Protein
0.2g (0.4%)
Carbs
1.4g (0.51%)
Sugars
0.1g (0.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.1g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Cloves are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- They contain essential nutrients like manganese, which supports bone health and metabolism.
- Known for their warm, aromatic flavor, cloves are often used to enhance both sweet and savory dishes.
- Cloves are a common ingredient in spice blends like garam masala and pumpkin spice, adding depth and complexity.
- They are often used in teas and broths for their soothing and aromatic properties.
- Cloves are a natural way to add flavor without relying on salt or sugar, making them a great choice for health-conscious cooking.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Store whole or ground cloves in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a pantry or spice cabinet. Avoid exposure to heat, light, or moisture to maintain their potency and flavor. Whole cloves tend to retain their flavor longer than ground cloves, so consider grinding them fresh as needed. For extended storage, you can freeze cloves in a sealed container, but ensure they are kept dry to prevent clumping.
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