A clove is a small, nail-shaped spice that comes from the flower buds of an evergreen tree called Syzygium aromaticum. Before these buds open into flowers, they're harvested and dried until they turn dark brown. The word "clove" actually comes from the Latin word "clavus," which means "nail" – perfectly describing their distinctive shape!
What cloves taste like
Cloves have a very strong, warm, and sweet flavor with a slightly bitter undertone. They're incredibly aromatic and can be quite powerful – a little goes a long way! The intense flavor comes from an essential oil called eugenol, which makes up about 85% of clove's oil content.
Forms of cloves
You'll find cloves in three main forms:
- Whole cloves (the dried buds)
- Ground cloves (powdered)
- Clove oil (essential oil extracted from the buds)
Common uses in cooking
- Whole cloves: Often stuck into onions or ham before baking
- Ground cloves: Used in pumpkin pie spice, gingerbread, and other baked goods
- Savory dishes: Essential in many Indian curries and rice dishes
- Beverages: Used in mulled wine, cider, and some teas
Historical significance
Cloves have been used for over 2,000 years! They originated in the Maluku Islands (Indonesia), known as the "Spice Islands." During the spice trade era, cloves were one of the most valuable spices in the world – sometimes worth more than gold by weight!
Storage tips
- Store whole cloves in an airtight container in a cool, dark place
- They'll keep their flavor for about a year
- Ground cloves lose their flavor more quickly, so it's best to buy whole cloves and grind them as needed
Pro tip
When using whole cloves in cooking, remember to count how many you put in and remove them before serving – biting into a whole clove can be an overwhelming experience! If you're making a stock or sauce, you can put them in a tea infuser or tie them in a cheesecloth bag for easy removal.
Health benefits
Traditionally, cloves have been used for:
- Dental pain relief (clove oil)
- Digestive aid
- Natural antimicrobial properties
- Antioxidant benefits