Ground cloves

Cloves are the dried flower buds of the clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum), an evergreen plant native to the Moluccas Islands in Indonesia. The tree reaches a height of up to 15 meters and produces fragrant buds that are collected before flowering and dried to a dark brown color. Cloves have a strong, spicy aroma and a rich flavor with sweet, woody, and slightly spicy notes.

Ground cloves are widely used in cooking and are a main ingredient in many spice blends. It adds depth and spiciness to sweet and savory dishes. In confectionery, it is combined with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, enriching the flavor of Christmas cakes, gingerbread, fruit pies, and hot drinks such as mulled wine and tea. In savory dishes, it is used to flavor meat specialties, sauces, marinades, and stews, and is especially popular in Oriental and Indian cuisine.

Cloves are an integral part of traditional spice blends such as garam masala, the Chinese “five spices” and various European Christmas mixes. Due to its intense flavor, it should be used sparingly so as not to dominate the other ingredients in the dish. Ground cloves pair well with vanilla, citrus peels, and ginger, complementing the flavors with warm and spicy nuances.