Cloves are highly aromatic flower buds known for their intense, warm flavor and slightly sweet, peppery notes. Widely used in global cuisines, cloves add depth to curries, marinades, baked goods, teas, and spice blends like garam masala. Their bold flavor makes them a favorite in both sweet and savory dishes, especially in festive and traditional recipes.
Cloves are harvested from the evergreen clove tree, native to Indonesia but also cultivated in India, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar. The buds are picked before they bloom and then dried to develop their rich, dark brown color and potent aroma. India is a major consumer and exporter of high-quality cloves, appreciated for their strong essential oil content.
In addition to their culinary uses, cloves are valued for their medicinal benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and contain eugenol, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Cloves have been traditionally used to aid digestion, relieve toothaches, and support immune health.