Clove

Cloves are the dried unopened flower buds of the evergreen clove tree belonging to the family Myrtaceae. Native to the Maluku islands in Indonesia, cloves are now commercially grown in Indonesia, India, Madagascar, Zanzibar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

The buds are harvested by hand when they are still pink in color and then dried in the sun or in commercial air driers. The dried brown cloves, which resemble tiny nails, are about 1/2-inch long and 1/4-inch in diameter. Although they have a hard exterior, cloves have a very intense flavor, due to the high concentration of essential oils.

Uses of cloves

As a condiment: The intense flavor of the clove has been effectively used to enhance the taste of both sweet and savory dishes in Indian, Mexican, African and Continental cuisine. Cloves also work well in combination with other spices and condiments like cinnamon, allspice, vanilla, red wine, basil, citrus peel, star anise and peppercorns in the flavoring of diverse foods, from meats curries and marinades to fruit based desserts and fruit compotes.

For general health: Cloves are packed with essential phytonutrient compounds, making them a rich source of calcium, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin K, dietary fibre, and vitamin C. Cloves have also been used in Indian Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine systems for centuries, especially in the field of dentistry and as a carminative. Eugenol, the primary component of the clove's volatile oil, has been isolated as an anti-inflammatory substance, and is used in toothpastes, mouthwashes, root canal therapy, temporary fillings, and general gum pain medications.

Selection and storage of cloves

It is advisable to buy whole cloves instead of clove powder as the later loses its pungent flavor more quickly. The freshness of cloves can be tested by squeezing them with your fingernail. A good quality fresh clove will release a small amount of oil. In addition, when immersed in a bowl of water, fresh cloves will float vertically, while those that are stale will sink or float horizontally.

Store whole cloves in a tightly sealed glass container away from sunlight. Whole cloves will remain fresh for a year, while powdered cloves will stay fresh for up to six months. The shelf life of whole cloves can be extended by storing them in the refrigerator.

Purchase superior quality cloves at Ameen Exports

Ameen Exports offer superior quality whole cloves, clove powder and clove oil to wholesalers, distributors, supermarkets, restaurants, large importers, and food chains around the world. Sourced directly from the planters themselves, the fresh cloves are processed and packed in food grade bags that retain their freshness. We also offer customized branding and packing solutions for our entire spice and curry masala range.