Ground Clove
Description
Clove powder is a ground spice made from the dried flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree. It has a strong, aromatic flavor with warm, sweet, and slightly bitter notes, and is used in both sweet and savory dishes like baked goods, curries, and mulled wine. It is more pungent than whole cloves and should be used in moderation.
Key characteristics
Origin: Dried flower buds from the clove tree, native to the Maluku Islands of Indonesia.
Flavor: A warm, aromatic, spicy, and slightly bitter taste, stronger when ground than whole.
Appearance: A fine, brown powder.
Common uses
Baking: Adds a warm flavor to pies, cakes, and cookies.
Savory dishes: Used in meat rubs, stews, curries, and rice dishes.
Spice blends: A key ingredient in blends like garam masala, Chinese five-spice, and pumpkin spice.
Beverages: Included in recipes for chai tea, mulled wine, and spiced cider.
Marinades and rubs: Used to flavor meats for marinades and rubs.
Tips for use
Use sparingly: Due to its potent flavor, a little goes a long way.
Grind fresh: The flavor of ground cloves fades faster than whole cloves. For the best taste, grind them right before use, says WebMD.
Storage: Store whole cloves in an airtight container to preserve freshness longer.
Type
Seasoning