What is a clove?
The Clove is the dried flower bud of the clove tree, a tropical tree belonging to the same family as eucalyptus. Although native to the Moluccas Islands in Indonesia, it now grows in many tropical regions around the world, including Zanzibar, Madagascar and the Comoros. Once hand-picked before they open, we carefully dry these small, dark brown flower buds with their intense, warm fragrance that we offer you at Madras Épices.
What does clove taste like?
The clove reveals a very powerful, warm and slightly sweet flavour, with a characteristic woody and slightly pungent note. Unlike more discreet spices, it has a very assertive character that can easily take over. In short, a few cloves are enough to transform a recipe; it is a spice that requires precision but brings unique aromatic depth.
How to use cloves?
You've bought whole cloves but don't know how to use them? Don't panic; here are all the ways to incorporate them into your recipes.
In practice, cloves can be used in both savoury and sweet dishes. You can use them whole in your slow-cooked dishes and remove them before serving. Alternatively, grind them yourself in a mortar just before use for an even more intense and fresh aroma.
En savoury cuisine, They flavour stews, marinades, pot roasts and slow-cooked dishes from all over the world. Likewise, they are found in many spice blends such as ras-el-hanout, garam masala or baharat.
En Patisserie and drinks, they are essential in gingerbread, compotes, spiced biscuits, and mulled wine. Thus, they pair particularly well with [cinnamon], [nutmeg], and [cardamom] to create warm and comforting blends.
What dosage? Start with 2 to 3 whole cloves for a dish for 2 people; they are very potent! Always remove them before serving as they are not eaten whole.
💡 Tip: Stick a few cloves into an onion before adding it to your broth or stew; it's the secret to great traditional French recipes!
What are the benefits of cloves?
Clove doesn't just flavour your dishes. In fact, traditional doctors have been using it for millennia for its many natural benefits. Firstly, it is particularly rich in eugenol, Its main active compound is a powerful protector of cells against premature ageing. Furthermore, it helps to relieve digestive disorders and improves intestinal comfort after meals. In addition, it supports the body's natural defences and helps to reduce inflammation. Finally, thanks to its naturally antibacterial properties, it has been used since antiquity to preserve food and relieve toothache.
💡 To know: From the 3rd century BC, Chinese officials chewed them before approaching the emperor to ensure fresh breath, one of the earliest «remedies» for bad breath in history!
This information is general in nature and does not replace professional medical advice.
A spice more valuable than gold
The clove is one of the most coveted spices in history. As early as the 3rd century BC, Chinese officials chewed them before approaching the emperor. Indeed, during the Renaissance, it was worth more than gold and triggered real naval battles between the Portuguese, Dutch and French to control its trade.
Consequently, this rare spice played a major role in the great maritime explorations and trade between the East and West. Today, cultivated mainly in Zanzibar, Madagascar and the Comoros, it remains one of the most prized and widely used spices in cuisines around the world.
All you need to know about our cloves
- Product : 100% pure cloves, free from additives and preservatives
- Botanical name Clove
- Origin Indonesia, Madagascar
- Conservation Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Re-seal after use.
- Available formats Opaque resealable sachet 125g – 250g – 500g – 1kg
- Texture Whole cloves
- Colour Dark brown with reddish highlights
- Aroma Warm, intense, woody and resinous flavour
👨🍳 Our favourite recipes
- The best spices for chicken
- Chicken curry and coconut milk
- Recipe for Rotisserie-style roast chicken and stock potatoes
- Marinated chicken strips
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