Clove

Clove is a spice derived from the dried flower buds of the evergreen tree, Syzygium aromaticum. It is a popular spice that is used in cooking, baking, and in traditional medicine. Cloves have a strong, sweet, and aromatic flavor that can be used to add a warm and spicy note to both sweet and savory dishes.


Clove has a long and rich history, with its use dating back to ancient China and India. The ancient Chinese used cloves to sweeten their breath, and they were also used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a range of ailments. In India, cloves were used in Ayurvedic medicine as a digestive aid and to treat toothache and gum pain.


Today, clove is used in many different cuisines around the world. It is a common ingredient in spice blends such as garam masala and Chinese five spice. Cloves are often used to flavor meats, soups, and stews, and they are also used in baking, particularly in holiday treats like gingerbread and pumpkin pie.

Mulled Wine - Recipe

Ingredients:

1 bottle (750 ml) red wine

1 cup apple cider

1/4 cup honey

1 orange, sliced

8 TOP FOOD Cloves

2 TOP FOOD Cinnamon Sticks

1 TOP FOOD Star Anise

Optional garnishes: orange slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and/or cranberries

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, apple cider, honey, and orange slices.

2. Add the TOP FOOD Cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise to the pot.

3. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the wine is heated through.

5. Remove the pot from the heat and strain the mulled wine through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the TOP FOOD Cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.

6. Serve the mulled wine hot in mugs, garnished with additional orange slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and/or cranberries, if desired.

This Mulled Wine recipe is perfect for chilly nights or holiday gatherings. The cloves, along with other warming spices, infuse the wine with a cozy, spiced flavor that's perfect for sipping. Enjoy!