Definition: In the culinary arts, Cloves are a spice made from the flower buds of an evergreen tree called the Clove Tree.
Clove flower buds are harvested, unopened, and then dried. Cloves have a very strong, pungent flavor and aroma. Cloves can be used whole or ground. Whole cloves are shaped like a small spike, usually around one centimeter in length, with a bulbous top.
Whole cloves are not usually eaten, but are used to flavor sauces, soups and rice dishes. Whole cloves are either removed before serving or picked out of the dish. Even when cooked, whole cloves have a very hard, woody texture and their flavor would be overpowering. Whole cloves are used in making the classic Béchamel sauce.
Ground or powdered cloves are used in many recipes, including a number of traditional Indian dishes. Cloves are often used in dishes that also feature cinnamon or nutmeg, but in general, it's a good idea to use cloves sparingly.
Clove flower buds are harvested, unopened, and then dried. Cloves have a very strong, pungent flavor and aroma. Cloves can be used whole or ground. Whole cloves are shaped like a small spike, usually around one centimeter in length, with a bulbous top.
Whole cloves are not usually eaten, but are used to flavor sauces, soups and rice dishes. Whole cloves are either removed before serving or picked out of the dish. Even when cooked, whole cloves have a very hard, woody texture and their flavor would be overpowering. Whole cloves are used in making the classic Béchamel sauce.
Ground or powdered cloves are used in many recipes, including a number of traditional Indian dishes. Cloves are often used in dishes that also feature cinnamon or nutmeg, but in general, it's a good idea to use cloves sparingly.
