What Is It?
Cinnamon is a spice that is essentially the dried or powdered inner bark of the cinnamon tree. As the bark dries, it curls up into the familiar rolled up cinnamon sticks called quills. There are two main types of cinnamon: Ceylon (or true cinnamon) and Cassia cinnamon (more commonly found in stores).
Where To Find It?
It is very easy to find cinnamon in the spice section of grocery stores everywhere. You can buy it both in quill form (cinnamon sticks) as well as in powdered form.
Health Benefits
- Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant
- The antioxidants also have anti-inflammatory properties which reduce disease.
- Cinnamon has the ability to improve cholesterol and lower blood pressure: thus promoting heart health.
- By increasing the body’s insulin sensitivity, cinnamon reduces blood sugar.
- This wonderful spice also has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, reducing infections, fighting tooth decay and bad breath!
Healthline has done an excellent job summarizing the health benefits of Cinnamon.
Culinary Uses
Cinnamon is a warming spice that adds amazing depth in pretty much every cuisine , in both savory and sweet dishes.
- In the western world, it is used most commonly as a baking spice – apple and cinnamon is a match made in heaven!
- Cinnamon is a really nice addition to your breakfast in cinnamon rolls, oatmeal, granola, yogurt or apple pancakes.
- Middle eastern, Indian, and African cuisine use cinnamon to flavor savory dishes like rice and couscous, tagines, and stews.
- Mulled cider and wine use cinnamon as an essential warming spice!
- For a perfect winter afternoon treat, try hot chocolate with whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon.
- As an ingredient in many spice blends from Chinese five spice powder to garam masala and jerk seasoning.
For more on the culinary uses of this wonderful spice, Cooking Channel has a nice article on 25 Ways to Use Cinnamon.