Cloves

Scientific name: Syzygium aromaticum (Eugenia caryophyllus)

 

Cloves image

 

About this spice

The leaves of the clove tree are similar to those of the bay. The clove tree thrives only in tropical, seaside climates. The pinkish-red flower buds, which contain yellow petals and a mass of stamens, are harvested and dried until they turn brown. Cloves have a strong, warming flavor and aroma.

 

How to use this spice

Because clove oil is highly scented, a little bit will go a long way. For example, a single, whole clove will flavor an entire apple pie. Use cloves to flavor meats, baked goods, desserts, spice mixtures, and salad dressings.

 

Spice trivia

Cloves contain a strong antiseptic and have a slight anesthetic quality. Some people chew cloves to ease a toothache. Traditionally, they have been used to treat nausea and indigestion. At various times, wars have been fought over the rights to the clove industry.