DESCRIPTION – Cloves are the dried, unopened, nail-shaped flower buds of the evergreen tree Syzygium aromaticum. The name “clove” comes from the Latin word for nail, clavus (because of its shape).
It is an important ingredient in the spice blend garam masala. Cloves are best known as a sweet and aromatic spice, but they have also been used in traditional medicine.

PREPARATION AND USE –
• Cloves or laung have a strong flavor that is used to enhance the flavor of certain sweets, Mughlai dishes, meats, chana, pulao, biryani, marinades, etc.
• Cloves can be used whole or ground.
• People often include ground cloves in spice blends and whole cloves in recipes to add depth and flavor to a wide variety of foods.
• These small, dark brown pods are used to flavor curries, season meats, enrich sauces such as Worcestershire sauce, and even flavor spiced baked goods.
• Found in both whole and ground forms, this versatile spice can be used to season roasted meats, add flavor to hot drinks, and add spicy warmth to cookies and cakes.

THE HEALTH BENEFITS –
• Clove contains a compound called eugenol, which acts as a natural antioxidant.
• May help protect against cancer.
• Cloves have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, meaning they can help stop the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria.
• May improve liver health
• Cloves can help keep blood sugar under control.
• Compounds found in cloves may help treat stomach ulcers.

NUTRITIONAL VALUES – Per 2.1 g
• Energy/Calories - 6kcal
• Fat - 0.27 g
• Carbohydrates - 1.38 g
• Protein - 0.13 g
• Fiber - 0.7 g