What Is Clove?
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is an intensely and sharply fragrant spice made from dried, unopened flower buds. It is native to the Molucca (Spice) Islands of Indonesia; today it is also grown in tropical regions such as Zanzibar, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka.
The small, nail-shaped buds are sold whole or ground and have a sweet, pungent, slightly bitter flavor.
Clove Nutrition Facts
Cloves contain about 274 kcal of energy and 33.9 g of fiber per 100 grams; their most notable feature is their manganese content, which is many times higher than the daily requirement. Since the amount consumed is limited to 1–2 buds, these values make only a small contribution in practice.
What Are the Benefits of Cloves?
The eugenol compound in cloves is traditionally known as a folk remedy for easing toothache; some studies have examined eugenol’s antimicrobial properties. These findings have not become a definitive treatment recommendation.
This is general information; cloves are a spice and are not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult a dentist about complaints such as toothache.
How to Choose Cloves
Fresh cloves are dark brown, firm, and oily-looking; releasing a little oil when squeezed is a sign of good quality.
- The buds should be plump and unbroken.
- Standing upright when dropped in water or leaving an oily film on the surface indicates freshness.
- Avoid cloves that look pale or dusty.
How to Store Cloves
Whole cloves stay fresh for 2–3 years in a sealed jar in a cool, dark place. Ground cloves lose their aroma faster, so they should be used within about 1 year.
How to Use Cloves in the Kitchen
Cloves are used in syrup-soaked desserts, hot drinks, rice dishes, and some meat dishes (especially boiled dishes and stuffed foods).
How to Make Clove Tea
Add a few cloves to boiling water with a cinnamon stick and steep for 8–10 minutes to make a warming drink often enjoyed in winter.
What Recipes Use Cloves?
Syrup-soaked desserts, cinnamon-and-clove teas, rice dishes, and some boiled meat recipes are among the dishes that most often use cloves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cloves good for?
Cloves are a spice traditionally known for their eugenol content; people have long believed they help with toothache. They are a spice and are not a substitute for medical treatment.
Why are cloves used for toothache?
The mild numbing effect of the eugenol compound in cloves is traditionally known; however, this is a home remedy and does not treat the underlying cause of toothache, so a dentist should be consulted.
How many cloves should you add to a dish?
In most recipes, 2–4 cloves are enough. Their flavor is very strong, so adding too many can give a dish an overpowering, slightly bitter taste.
Should cloves be removed at the end of cooking?
Whole clove buds are usually removed from a dish at the end of cooking because they leave an intense, slightly bitter taste when bitten into; for this reason, they should be removed before serving, especially from rice dishes and boiled dishes.
Can cloves and cinnamon be used together?
Yes. Cloves and cinnamon are a classic spice pairing often used together in syrup-soaked desserts, hot drinks, and some meat dishes.