Cassia Cinnamon Sticks - 50g
Cinnamon sticks, also known as cassia sticks, are the dried, rolled-up bark of trees from the Cinnamomum cassia species. They are a common spice used in cooking and baking, known for their warm and aromatic flavor. Cinnamon sticks are often used in both sweet and savory dishes to add a rich, sweet, and slightly spicy taste.
Cinnamon sticks are typically derived from the inner bark of the cassia tree. After harvesting, the bark is dried and curled into sticks. These sticks can be used whole, or they can be ground into a powder for use in recipes.
In addition to their culinary uses, cinnamon sticks can be used for decorative purposes, such as garnishing beverages or adding a fragrant touch to potpourri or homemade crafts.
It's worth noting that while "cinnamon" and "cassia" are often used interchangeably, true cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum or Cinnamomum zeylanicum) and cassia (Cinnamomum cassia) come from different species of trees and have slightly different flavor profiles. Cassia sticks are generally more readily available and less expensive than true cinnamon sticks.
How to use Cassia Cinnamon Sticks:
Cassia cinnamon sticks can be used in various ways to add a warm and aromatic flavor to your dishes. Here are a few common methods for using Cassia Cinnamon Sticks:
1. Infusing in Beverages: Add a cinnamon stick to hot beverages like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate to infuse the flavor. You can also use it to flavor cold beverages such as iced tea or fruit-infused water. Simply place the stick in the liquid and allow it to steep for a few minutes before removing.
2. Flavoring Soups and Stews: Place a cinnamon stick in your soup or stew while it's cooking to infuse a subtle cinnamon flavor. Remember to remove the stick before serving.
3. Mulled Drinks: Use cinnamon sticks in mulled wine, cider, or other spiced drinks. Simmer the liquid with the cinnamon sticks, along with other spices and fruits, to create a flavorful and warming beverage.
4. Baking: Cinnamon sticks can be ground or grated into a powder and used in baking. You can add the powder to cakes, cookies, muffins, and other baked goods to enhance the flavor. Alternatively, you can use a whole cinnamon stick to stir hot mixtures like custards or rice pudding to infuse the flavor.
5. Flavoring Syrups and Sauces: Add a cinnamon stick to syrups, sauces, or marinades to infuse them with a warm and spicy flavor. Simmer the mixture with the cinnamon stick for a period of time to allow the flavors to meld together.
Remember to remove the cinnamon stick before serving the dish or beverage, as it is generally not meant to be consumed whole.
Cassia cinnamon sticks can be quite potent, so start with a smaller amount and adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile spice in your culinary creations!
Other usage
Did you know that cinnamon has a powerful anti fungal properties? A cinnamon foot bath can be a remedy for Athletes foot. Break 4 sticks into your hot foot bath and soak your feet in the cinnamon bath for 20 minutes. Try it!
Is Cinnamon low FODMAP?
Cinnamon is generally considered low FODMAP in small amounts. FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols) are a group of carbohydrates that can trigger symptoms in some individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive sensitivities.
Cinnamon itself does not contain significant amounts of FODMAPs. However, some individuals with IBS may be sensitive to certain compounds found in cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde, which can cause digestive symptoms in larger quantities.
The Monash University Low FODMAP Diet, a leading resource for FODMAP information, considers a serving of 1 teaspoon (approximately 2.6 grams) of ground cinnamon to be low FODMAP and generally well-tolerated. Larger amounts may have a higher FODMAP content and may be less suitable for individuals following a strict low FODMAP diet.
It's important to note that individual tolerance to FODMAPs can vary, and some people may still experience symptoms even with low FODMAP foods. If you have specific dietary concerns or are following a low FODMAP diet, it's advisable to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider who specializes in digestive health to determine your individual tolerance and make personalized recommendations.
Ingredients: Cassia Cinnamon from Indonesia
Nutritional value: N/A
