Botanical name: Syzygium aromaticum
Available forms: Cloves, ground, powder
Cloves are the dried flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree, native to Indonesia. They have a warm, sweet, and slightly bitter taste, and a strong, pungent aroma. Cloves are a popular spice used in cooking and baking, particularly in sweet dishes like cakes and pies, as well as in savory dishes such as soups and stews. They are also commonly used in spice blends like garam masala and pumpkin pie spice. Cloves are known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including toothaches, digestive issues, and respiratory problems. They are also a rich source of antioxidants and are a good source of several important nutrients, including manganese, vitamin K, and fiber.