You may get confused about whether is clove a herb or spice. It is because some people say clove is an herb. Others say that this ingredient is a spice. This article will explain more about it. After that, you can use clove as its function.
The Origin of Clove
Cloves are coming from the clove tree. Farmers harvest the flower buds and dry them. The dry flower buds are known as clove. This ingredient is so popular in Indian and Asian cuisine. Ancients even used this ingredient as a medicine to cure a variety of diseases. This ingredient is abundant in the Maluku Islands in Indonesia. Specific areas, such as Madagascar, Zanzibar, and Sri Lanka are also the source of cloves.
The Properties in Clove
Cloves contain beneficial properties, such as antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral. The properties help to boost your immune system, digestion system, and reduce inflammation. Researchers also find that this ingredient is full of antioxidants.
An antioxidant helps to fight against free radicals and strengthen your active cells. The essential properties in cloves are also effective enough to reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Is Clove Herb or Spice?
So, is clove a herb or spice? It is both. It is because clove has a strong aroma and flavor. It is a type of spice that can be used as an aromatic herb. In Asian cuisine, clove is often used with meat or poultry, including beef and chicken. You can even make a healthy drink from this ingredient. The more the amount of clove you use, the stronger the aroma and taste.
The Way to Use Clove
You can use cloves in the form of powder or the whole part. Some people even use both, the clove powder and the whole clove to get a stronger aroma and taste. Curries, sauces, and other meals will be tasty because of this ingredient.
Ground and Whole Cloves
Both ground and whole cloves are made from dried clove flower buds. The difference between these products is the texture. Ground cloves are in the form of powder. On the other hand, you see the form of dried clove when using whole cloves.
Which one of them gives the strongest taste and fragrance? Both of them give the same taste and fragrance levels. The ground cloves may lose their fragrance if you don’t store it well. The truth is that grounding the whole cloves can strengthen the smell and taste.
Conclusion
Cloves are both herbs and spices. It is related to function, taste, and smell. In cuisine, this ingredient adds a spicy flavor. The aroma of the meal is also stronger after adding clove. It means that clove has the characteristics of herbs and spices.
You can find whole cloves, ground cloves, and even oil cloves on the market. In the end, you don’t need to ask any more if is clove a herb or spice. You know the answer as well as the reason why. Knowing this information also helps you to use clove as its function whether in cuisine or medication.
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