What Is Clove?
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is an intense and sharp-scented spice obtained by drying still-unopened flower buds. Native to Indonesia's Molucca (Spice) Islands, it is also grown today in tropical regions such as Zanzibar, Madagascar and Sri Lanka.
The small, nail-shaped buds are sold both whole and ground; it has a sweet, sharp and slightly bitter taste.
Nutritional Values of Clove
Clove contains approximately 274 kcal of energy and 33.9 g of fiber per 100 grams; but its most notable feature is that it contains manganese many times over the daily requirement. Since the amount consumed is limited to one or two buds, these values provide a small contribution in practice.
What Are the Benefits of Clove?
The eugenol compound found in clove is traditionally known as a folk remedy for easing toothache; some studies examine eugenol's antimicrobial properties. These findings have not turned into a definitive treatment recommendation.
This information is general; clove is a spice, not a substitute for medical treatment. For complaints such as toothache, a dentist should be consulted.
How to Choose Clove?
Fresh clove is dark brown, firm and has an oily appearance; leaving a bit of oil when squeezed is a sign of good quality.
- The buds should be large and unbroken.
- Standing upright when dropped in water or leaving an oil film on the surface indicates freshness.
- Avoid pale, dusty-looking cloves.
How to Store Clove?
Whole clove retains its freshness for 2–3 years in a sealed jar in a cool, dark place. Ground clove, however, loses its aroma faster, so it is recommended to be consumed within about 1 year.
Using Clove in the Kitchen
Clove is used in syrup-based desserts, hot drinks, pilafs and some meat dishes (especially in boiled meat and stuffed vegetable recipes).
How to Make Clove Tea?
A few cloves are added to boiling water together with a cinnamon stick and steeped for 8–10 minutes; a warming drink frequently consumed in winter months is obtained.
Which Recipes Use Clove?
Syrup-based desserts, cinnamon-clove teas, pilafs and some boiled meat recipes are among the dishes where clove is used most.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is clove good for?
Clove is a spice known for its eugenol content; it is folk belief that it helps toothache. It is a spice, not a substitute for medical treatment.
Why is clove used for toothache?
The mild numbing effect of the eugenol compound in clove is traditionally known; however, this is a home remedy and does not treat the underlying cause of the toothache, a dentist needs to be consulted.
How many cloves are added to a dish?
2–4 cloves are sufficient in most recipes; since its aroma is quite strong, adding too many can give the dish an overpowering and bitter taste.
Should clove be removed at the end of cooking?
Whole clove buds are generally picked out of the food at the end of cooking, because biting into one leaves an intense and bitter taste; therefore removing it before serving is recommended especially in pilafs and boiled dishes.
Are clove and cinnamon used together?
Yes, clove and cinnamon are a classic spice duo frequently used together, especially in syrup-based desserts, hot drinks and some meat dishes.